112 Seijhert's Analysis of various Minerals. 



mentum, from one side to the other in a manner, very simi- 

 Jar to metallic substances, while the fragments of charcoal 

 will either not move, or move very tardily. 



It should be observed, that during the ignition of the 

 charcoal points, there is a peculiar odour, somewhat resem- 

 bling electricity, and a white fume rises perpendicularly, 

 forming a well defined line above the charcoal. There was 

 also, a distinct snap or crackling when the two points were 

 first brought together. 



Wishing to ascertain whether the Alkali, present in the 

 charcoal, had any effect in promoting the fusion, some pieces 

 of prepared charcoal, were thoroughly boiled in water, and 

 were then again exposed to a strong heat in a furnace be- 

 neath sand in a crucible. These pieces when connected in 

 the circuit exhibited the same appearances as the others 

 and proved equally fusible. 



Without destroying cabinet specimens, I could procure 

 no diamond slivers, and have not therefore, attempted the fu- 

 sion ot the diamond, which must be left to another opportu- 

 nity. Our circle of fusible bodies, so much enlarged by 

 the use of your instruments, is now so nearly complete, that 

 it would be very desirable to fill the only remaining nidie, 

 namely, that occupied by plumbago anthracite, and the dia- 

 mond. 



I remain as ever, truly your friend and 

 servant, 



B. SILLIMAN, 



P. S. I do not suppose, that those who repeat these ex* 

 periments, will succeed with the common galvanic appara- 

 tus. I deem it indispensable, that they be performed with 

 the dejlagrator, and with one equal in power to mine. 



