22 Microscopes at the American Exhibition. By J. G. Hunt. 
and this I propose to do from my own stand-point of observation, 
which is that of an interested observer of the field, rather than an 
active labourer therein. 
Common courtesy leads me to speak first of the well-known 
foreign instruments which were displayed doubtless for the especial 
purpose of being looked at by all observers. Ornate show-cases 
have no essential connection with microscopy ; they belong, in my 
opinion, to a distinct branch of mechanics. I shall not, therefore, 
entertain you with their description. Neither does needlessly 
massive brasswork necessarily give stability nor perfect motions 
to microscopes ; therefore such specimens of brazen elephantiasis I 
will not further diagnose at this time. 
The improved form of the Boss instrument in which the fine 
adjustment is removed from the upper and placed beneath the 
lower end of the body, is a great improvement over the old pattern. 
Greater accuracy of motion is secured along with improved appear- 
ance. The wart is placed under the nose instead of on it, that is 
all. Like most other English microscopes, the distance between the 
focal point and eye-piece is changed every time the fine adjustment 
is touched, and therefore the magnifying power is constantly 
altering, and is perceptible under highest powers. The new form 
is stronger and more steady than the old one, and less massive. 
The binocular prism is a fixture in the body, and does not change 
position while focussing. The Boss stage is still too thick, neces- 
sitating special and expensive apparatus for obliquest light. The 
finish of these instruments is good, but not the best, and the 
motions are smooth ; but, I have reason to believe, had the hyper- 
critical judgments of American microscopists been earlier known, 
that eminent firm would have displayed superior work to that we 
have seen. 
Beck’s large stand has more grace of form than any other 
foreign microscope ; and, in excellence of finish, was superior to any 
other foreign instrument on exhibition. In my opinion the stage 
is mechanically defective. It has no adjustment for eccentric con- 
centric rotation, and therefore seldom turns in the optical axis. 
Its mechanical arrangements for motion do not remain in order 
without frequent adjustment, and this results not from neglect of 
workmanship, but from defective design. Better abandon racks 
altogether in stage motions than spend time in adjusting bad ones. 
It is common experience, in this country, that foreign-made racks 
are not equal in smoothness of motion to those made at home. 
The stands exhibited by Mr. Crouch displayed great excellence 
of workmanship, and this maker’s aim has been to cheapen produc- 
tion without sacrificing commercial good work, and I think he has 
succeeded. His motions are made with more than 01 dinary foreign 
care, and his instruments therefore wear well. Crouch’s best stands 
