112 
Ordinary Meeting, March 22nd, 1859. 
W. Fairbairn, F. R. S., &c.. President, in the Chair. 
The President exhibited a specimen of Mr. Allen’s 
submarine electric cable, which consists of a central copper 
wire strengthened by an envelope of fine steel wires, the 
whole being coated with two or three layers of gutta percha. 
In the conversation which ensued, an opinion was expressed 
that this form of cable would be liable to kink, particularly if 
laid in heavy weather. It was suggested that a better 
insulating medium than gutta percha might be discovered. 
Mr. Ransome stated that he had frequently found that 
gutta percha became so rotten in the course of two or three 
years that it could be crumbled away between the fingers. 
It could, however, be restored to its original condition by 
immersing it in hot water. 
Professor Calvert remarked that immersion in water did 
not always preserve the qualities of gutta percha. A speci- 
men which he had kept immersed in distilled water had 
ultimately become completely rotten. The gutta percha of 
commerce was frequently much adulterated. 
Mr. Binney made the following statement. “ In the 
public prints, frequent allusions are made to micro-photo- 
graphy. In the Manchester Guardian of the 11th March 
instant, is the following paragraph : — ‘ Photographic curiosi- 
ties. — M. Amadio of Throgmorton-street, whose portrait of 
Charles Dickens no larger than a pin’s point was lately 
noticed, has produced by photography a view of Westminster 
Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey, 
within a space not larger than the eye of a worsted needle. 
The same gentleman has published a portrait of a youth 
which is only just larger than a needle’s point, but, when 
magnified is as perfect as any conceivable likeness.’ No 
doubt most of the members of this society have seen the 
Pkoceedixos — Lit. & Pim.. Society — No. 13. — Session, 1858-9. 
