54 



TRAVELS AMONGST THE GREAT ANDES, chap. tit. 



barometers are usually sent out by their makers in a zinc-lined 

 leather case (similar to that shewn in the annexed figure), and 

 are carried slung by straps across the shoulder, the large ends 

 uppermost, — that is to say, 

 with cisterns reversed. These 

 cases may give enough protec- 

 tion if the instruments are 

 carried along a road, or over 

 easy ground, but they do not 

 afford sufficient to withstand 

 the shocks, jolts, and accidents 

 of travel. Sometimes the case 

 is actually crushed in upon the 

 tube, and in other instances the 

 tube is broken by concussion, 

 although the case may not be 

 injured. Each of the ordinary 

 cases of my barometers was 

 again enclosed in a wooden 

 box, with deal sides and oak 

 ends, and was padded all around 

 with a quantity of tow to 

 deaden concussion. They were 

 always carried on the back, 

 upright, with the large ends 

 uppermost, and were kept in 

 position by knapsack straps. 

 Although they were treated 

 with the utmost care, they 

 had to sustain many accidental 

 knocks and jars, and upon 



several occasions Jean-Antoine had to hastily throw himself off 

 his beast, as best he could, to avoid an utter smash. ^ 



' Each barometer in its case, as supplied by tlie maker, weighed 6 lbs. Each 

 additional wooden case weighed 6^ lbs. more. 



