142 



There are to be two exhibitions here in London, June and 

 December this year, to advance and exploit Colonial produce. Here 

 is a grand opportunity to exhibit Ramie (Rhea). If any of your 

 readers have experimental patches of Ramie (Rhea) I would suggest 

 they send samples to me. 



i st. — Cut a dozen stems as long as possible with all sides shoots, 

 leaves, etc., etc. Dry thoroughly in the sun before 

 packing. If too long for post double up but do not 

 cut in pieces. 



2nd. — Strip from other stems about one pound of ribbons — as 

 peeled from the stems. Dry thoroughly in the sun 

 before packing, 



3rd. — Strip, say. another pound of ribbons, but whilst in a green 

 or fluid state scrape off the pellicle or brown bark, and 

 remove some of the gum. This is easily done by 

 drawing the ribbons through the thumb and finger, 

 on which fix a piece of hardwood or bamboo ; or draw 

 the ribbons over the edge of a piece of board. Rinse 

 in a little water and thoroughly dry. 



If anv growers of Ramie will send me these small samples carri- 

 age paid, I will first test and furnish them with a report as to the 

 fibre gratis. I will also, free of expense to the grower or sender, 

 exhibit his specimens at one of the exhibitions. 



I cannot too strongly impress on all who send specimens to be 

 sure all is well dried before packing. I am most ailxious to help to 

 introduce Ramie, and I should be glad to know the names and 

 addresses of all who in your Colony are willing to co-operate in 

 introducing the industry. To those who know nothing of Ramie, I 

 shall be pleased to send a pamphlet gratis on the cultivation of 

 Ramie, and I recommend every planter to experiment — it can be 

 done for a cost of five or six shillings only. In the hope you will 

 help to introduce what may become an enormous industry to your 

 Colony. I will thank you in anticipation. Floreat Ramie ! 



D. EDW ARDS-RADCLYFFE, 

 Staines, England. 



The cultivation of Ramie not only means an agricultural industry, 

 but also the possibility of a manufacturing industry following. 



VACUUM DRYER FOR RUBBER. 



H. N. RIDLEY. Esq., 



Director of the Garde?is< 



Singapore, F. M. S. 



Dear Sir, 



I am enclosing an illustrated description of the Passburg 

 Vacuum Drying Chambers, which are extensively used in Rubber 



