Bronze Implement found near Currie, Mid-Lothian. 105 



therefore, of their antiquity. I also wished information as to the 

 hardness of the metal of which this instrument was composed, 

 and its capability of having once had a fine and sharp edge. 



Dr Macadam hied a portion of the metal from the back of the 

 straight stalk or handle, where it has since unfortunately been 

 broken; and has kindly favoured me with the following notes, 

 giving the result of his examination : — 



"I have examined the bronze implement found at Kinleitb, 

 near Currie, and find its composition to be : — 



Copper (with trace of lead), . . 92*97 



Tin, . . . 4 7-03 



lOO'OO 



It is therefore a true bronze, with less than the average proportion 

 of tin. 



"The metal .was hard under the file, and it might have had an 

 edge when new. I have no doubt the rust is a double carbonate 

 and oxide of copper, but I do not know if we can connect the 

 characteristic appearance of this rust with any peculiarity in the 

 composition of the alloy. I would be more inclined to consider 

 that the circumstances in which the implement was placed in 

 regard to moisture and atmospheric action, would play an important 

 part in the formation of the various coloured tints." 



This being the concluding meeting of the Session, votes of thanks 

 were given to the Office -bearers, and the Society adjourned to the 

 commencement of next winter session. 



vol. in. 



0 



