English j^cjrkiiltural Society. Ixv 



for the equable slicing-cut of the two knives^ each 3 feet long, 

 fixed on the fly-wheel, and for the method of advancing the 

 straw. The first operation is effected by the peculiar form of 

 the cutting edge of the knives, which pass through the straw at 

 the same angle with it from point to heel; and are so adjusted 

 as to act with nice precision against the polished metal surface 

 of the straw-box. The straw, which is stationary and firmly 

 compressed by the press-board during the cut, is advanced in the 

 interval of one knife finishing and the other commencing its 

 action. This operation is accomplished, very exactly and simply, 

 by means of an elliptic wheel, driven by an eccentric circular one, 

 whose motion is derived from a latchet-wheel on the same axis 

 acted on by a crank, so that the straw is forced rapidly forward ; 

 the press-board in front being at the same time raised to take off 

 the friction, and brought down again with a powerful grip upon 

 the straw, whilst the knife passes through it. A contrivance is 

 also adapted for varying the length of the chaff from 3-8ths to 

 inch in length. With the J inch cut, it was stated to produce 

 J a ton of chaff per hour, with the power of 2 horses, and so on 

 in proportion to the length of cut. This machine is equally 

 applicable to steam or water, as to horse power. 



Hand-Machines, of a similar construction, with one knife, were 

 exhibited ; as also others, cutting only one length of straw, which 

 is advanced by a screw. 



BiddelVs Scarifier, invented by Arthur Biddell, Esq., of Play- 

 ford, also manufactured by Messrs. Ransome, and noticed by the 

 judges, is an implement of great utility, and constructed with 

 much mechanical skill and power. It consists of two row^s of 

 teeth, fixed in a strong iron frame, supported by a pair of average- 

 sized wheels, and preceded by a pair of smaller. Chisel-points 

 are affixed to the tines, which are removeable, and hoes, of 4J 

 inches wide for partial hoeing, and 9 inches wide to cut the land 

 close, substituted as occasions may require. The form of the 

 teeth is well adapted for bringing couch-grass to the surface 

 without breaking ; and it is represented by those who have used 



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