150 
most of the particulars admitting of comparison. On some 
desirable heads the accounts give little information, such as 
the quantity of air computed to enter, the kind of roof and 
of floor, &c. And I should wish to see inserted in future 
accounts several heads respecting which our present accounts 
furnish no materials. Such are — the speed of the air current 
in the principal air passages; the amount, and kind, and period 
of sinking in the country above, &c. 
It is remarkable that at three of those places from which 
we have the most particular accounts, coal getting had been 
suspended shortly before the accidents. At Jarrow, for six 
days, until four days before the explosion. At Risca the 
day before,* and at Darley the day before,t respectively. 
The events might create a doubt whether the ventilation had 
in each case been carried on as actively during the intervals 
as if the usual labours of the pit had been continued. This 
subject was not remarked on by the Government Com- 
missioners, or, so far as appears, by the Coroner, in either 
case. Whether, in these instances, it be a significant fact, 
or only an accidental coincidence, it is quite clear that venti- 
lation should never slacken. The gas is constantly issuing 
in pits subject to it, and it will accumulate during the absence 
of the men, to be ready for any contingency favourable to its 
inflammation after their return, unless it be in the mean time, 
and as fast as it issues, diluted and carried ofi*. It is also 
observable that at Risca both the firemen had, through illness, 
or being engaged elsewhere, entrusted, on that day, their 
usual duties to others. At Darley also there had been 
a change, though both must be supposed equally skilled. 
George Addy, fireman, who had gone down to ‘‘ try the 
fire” daily for two years, being ill, Joseph Thompson, the 
bottom steward, took his place. I attach no importance, 
however, to this. Let me remark that, in commenting on 
* Collieries’ Report, p. 36. t Darley Report, p. 10, and Leeds Mercurij. 
