446 Transactions. — Chemistry. 



the microscope only reveals their globular form. The finely divided 

 state of this siliceous material is the cause of its bedding so firmly while 

 wet. 



In concluding, it will be interesting to review the extent of our importa- 

 tions into New Zealand of this class of goods during the last few years. 

 Under this head we will include fire-bricks, china and parian ware, earthen- 

 ware, drain pipes, and stoneware, the amount being as per invoice assessed 

 for duty :— in 1877, £52,691 ; in 1878, £49,791 ; in 1879, £67,164 ; and in 

 1880, £34,951 ; to this last sum must also be added £1,050 for earthenware 

 passed as free goods. When we add to these figures the cost of freight, 

 breakage, and duty, the latter at 15 per cent., it will be seen that the sub- 

 ject I have brought before you is one well worthy a little consideration. 



