Machine for Shoemakers* 458 
V . A circular cushion affixed to the bench, in the centre 
of which cushion is an open space quite through the 
bench, through which hole a leather strap U is 
brought up from below. This strap holds the work 
and last firm upon the cushion in any position re- 
quired, by means of the workman’s foot place upon 
the treadle W. 
X, Shows the last upon the cushion, with the strap 
holding it firm. 
Y, An implement used in closing boots. 
Z, A small flat leather cushion, useful in adjusting the 
last and strap. 
Fig. 8. The shoe-last shown separate from the cushion. 
The round cushion is formed of a circular piece of 
wood, covered with leather or stuffed with wool or 
hair to give it some elasticity. 
No. 55. 
Description of an improved File for Receipts and Let- 
ters. By Richard White, Esq . of Essex -Street*. 
(With a Plate.) 
SIR, I send herewith the model of a file for papers, 
which I think will be found preferable to any in common 
use. A voucher cannot be disengaged from the common 
file, without defacing it by cutting it off, or by removing 
many others to get at it ; and to return it to its proper place 
is attended with more trouble and inconvenience. All this 
is avoided by the contrivance in the file now sent, the 
wire of which is passed through a cylinder, and fastened 
by a screw at the bottom. 
I am, Sir, your very humble servant. 
RICHARD WHITE. 
* Nicholson, v. 25. p. 330. — Transact, of the Society of Arts, vol. xxviij 
p, 170. The silver medal was voted to Mr. White for this invention. 
