MODE OF HEATING BY STEAM 
101 
For Melon Pits, &c_Fig. 9, represents a mode of applying 
bottom-heat to a Melon pit, adopted by Mr. Sturge, of Bath. In this 
arrangement, a hollow chamber is formed over the bed of stones, &c. 
that cover the steam pipes, the arrangement of the paved bottom, 
steam pipes, channels, 
&c. being in all respects 
similar to that described 
in Figs. 7 and 8. Im¬ 
mediately over the bed 
of stones are laid joists, 
supporting a paved bottom jointed without mortar, on which is placed 
another bed of stones, &e. about eight inches thick, and on this the 
mould containing the plants. 
The objects of this arrangement are first, to obtain a perfect uni¬ 
formity of temperature, and secondly, to prevent the possibility of 
any of the roots receiving injury from heat, should they accidentally 
strike through the mould into the bed of stones; both of which ob¬ 
jects are perfectly attained. 
Figs, 10 and 11 represent an elevation and plan of a Melon Pit, 
erected for W. W. Salmon, Esq. at Devises. Shewing also the mode 
to 
of heating the atmosphere of the pit, the arrangement of the steam- 
pipes, paved bottom channels for vapour, &c. are precisely the same 
B 
as above described, but in lieu of beds of broken stones, &c. bricks are 
here placed edge-wise onejover the other, four deep, arranged in the 
same manner as for burning a kiln, over which is laid a flat cover 
jointed close without; mortar, and on this the mould containing the 
plants. 
