Miscellaneous Imi)lemenis TJxhiUted at Warwiclc. 551 
othei’, mounted on cast-iron standards secured to the cast- 
iron base plate which also carries the boiler. The piston 
rods of both cylinders are connected to one cross-head from 
which the connecting rod leads to the crank of a single 
throw shaft. A horizontal cylindrical valve chest connects 
both cylinders, and a valve, having the necessary passages 
for the proper distribution of the steam, is actuated therein by 
means of a single eccentric and rod. The boiler attached to this 
engine was of the well known Field type. 
Article 4357. Messrs. Shand, Mason & Co.., 75 Upper Ground 
Street, S.E. Among a selection of hose couplings exhibited by 
this firm was one which has only just been brought out, and, as we 
understood, was the first one made of the kind. The object aimed 
at, as in other “ catch ” couplings, is rapidity of coupling together 
with secui’ity ; in this particular coupling both these require- 
ments seem to have been obtained. Inside the female end of the 
coupling, two segmental rings are let into a recess, one end of 
each being pivoted therein, the other end projecting out of the 
groove and held out by a spring. The male or spigot end has a 
projecting ring with a groove behind it ; it is therefore only 
necessary to push the two unions together, the projecting ring 
on the male end pushes back the two spring segments in passing, 
but so soon as the grooved space comes opposite to them the 
ends engage in the groove and make a secure coupling. Although 
as a coupling it possesses many advantages over the ordinary 
screw coupling, discrimination must be exercised in its use. In 
case of fire, it is so essential to have the couplings of all avail- 
able hose interchangeable that a new type of coupling is only 
allowable where no additional hose is likely to be called into 
requisition or where such coupling is adopted by the local fire 
brigade. A reducing socket may be kept in stock for connect- 
ing up other hose in case of fire, but this makes one more union 
to be hunted for at a time when everyone is in a state of con- 
fusion. 
There was one exhibit which had never before appeared at a 
Royal Show, but which, I think, should be warmly welcomed. 
I refer to Stand 371 — the Warwickshire County Council. This 
stand was especially interesting to those who are taking any part 
in the Technical Education movement in the various County 
Councils. They could see there what was being done in 
Warwickshire as to agricultural lectures and classes. I have no 
doubt many useful hints were picked up which will be turned 
to good use elsewhere. 
Nothing remains for me now to do but, on behalf of the 
VOL. Ill, T. S. — 11 QQ 
