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weight would constantly be on the face of the coal where 
the men were at work, and the said weight would grind 
the coal, so that one half of it would be slack, as it is 
no uncommon occurrence even in mines three to four feet 
thick, when the weight is on, to break over the coal for yards, 
force the gas out in such quantities as to foul the air, 
however strong the current, and shut up the workings for 
the time being, however well packed or puncheoned. I 
therefore regard Mr. B's. plan of working coal as utterly 
impracticable, and hope that some plan may be devised 
less objectionable and more simple to work from the dip to 
the rise, both safe and economical. A modification of the 
longwork principle, where practicable, affords the desidera- 
tum ; and I have endeavoured to show how I think it is 
quite possible so to lay out and work a colliery, by clearing 
out the coal from board-gate to board-gate where longwork 
is not practicable, but avoiding following up benks in all cases ; 
also to leave the benk-level open for the air, that should 
any part of the workings be obstructed, there might be a 
free course. I further propose sheets instead of doors at 
the bottom of every benk, so that the air will always have a 
clear course if any or even all the benks are stopped, and 
on this principle the whole of the coal is cleared out, or 
nearly so. The pack walls are a sufficient support for 
the roof, and thin pillars could be left if necessary. 
This plan would not admit of heavy falls of roof, but a 
gradual sinking would take place until the space was filled 
almost as solidly as it was before the coal was worked ; and if 
the gas is forced out it is principally from the men at work, 
not to them. I further provide that fresh air shall be con- 
ducted through such workings, and be conveyed to the up-cast 
shafts, without passing on the main hurrying roads, or being 
allowed to come in contact with any of the people employed 
in the mine. To effect this I have endeavoured to shew 
