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There are to be two exhibitions here in London, June and 
December this year, to advance and exploit Colonial produce. Here 
is a grand opportunity to exhibit Ramie (Rhea). If any of your 
readers have experimental patches of Ramie (Rhea) I would suggest 
they send samples to me. 
ist. — Cut a dozen stems as long as possible with all sides shoots, 
leaves, etc,, etc. Dry thoroughly in the sun before 
packing . If too long for post double up but do not 
cut in pieces. 
2nd. — Strip from other stems about one pound of ribbons — as 
peeled from the stems. Dry thoroughly in the sun 
before packing, 
3rd. — Strip, say, another pound of ribbons, but whilst in a green 
or fluid state scrape off the pellicle or brown bark, and 
remove some of the gum. This is easily done by 
drawing the ribbons through the thumb and finger, 
on which fix a piece of hardwood or bamboo ; or draw 
the ribbons over the edge of a piece of board. Rinse 
in a little water and thoroughly dry. 
If any growers of Ramie will send me these small samples carri- 
age paid, I will first test and furnish them with a report as to the 
fibre gratis. I will also, free of expense to the grower or sender, 
exhibit his specimens at one of the exhibitions. 
I cannot too strongly impress on all who send specimens to be 
sure all is well dried before packing. I am most anxious to help to < 
introduce Ramie, and I should be glad to know the names and 
addresses of all who in your Colony are willing to co-operate in 
introducing the industry. To those who know nothing of Ramie, I 
shall be pleased to send a pamphlet gratis on the cultivation of 
Ramie, and I recommend every planter to experiment — it can be 
done for a cost of five or six shillings only. In the hope you will 
help to introduce what may become an enormous industry to your 
Colony, I will thank you in anticipation. Floreat Ramie ! 
D. EDWARDS-RADCLYFFE, 
Staines, England. 
The cultivation of Ramie not only means an agricultural industry, 
but also the possibility of a manufacturing industry following. 
VACUUM DRYER FOR RUBBER. 
H. N. RIDLEY, Esq., 
Director of the Gardens , 
Singapore, F. M. S. 
Dear Sir, 
I am enclosing an illustrated description of the Passburg 
Vacuum Drying Chambers, which are extensively used in Rubber 
