554 
workmen in exposing the lights to danger, perhaps in efforts 
to light their pipes when the lamp was locked. Mr. Briggs 
cited some cases in proof of the statement, and then 
expressed his gratification with the results presented in the 
little instrument before them of the ready detection of fire 
and choke-damp. He begged to propose that the best 
thanks of the society be given to Mr. Reynolds for bringing 
the apparatus before them. 
Mr. L. Miall said that he had great pleasure in seconding 
the motion, for he felt the company were deeply indebted to 
Mr. Reynolds for his very lucid explanation of the scientific 
principles of this new invention. 
The resolution having been carried, 
Mr. Reynolds acknowledged the vote in suitable terms, 
observing that the successful illustration of the abstract 
principles of science in such an invention was a fact which 
well deserved their recognition, and ought to teach them 
that abstract science was as essential as applied science. 
