17 
to be fired horixontally firom a common gun. 
matter in equal parts. The composition of portfire is recom¬ 
mended, as it burns with great intensity, and is not easily 
extinguished. It may be ground to powder, and mixed with 
the bursting charge. If a shell of this size exploded on board 
a ship of war, it would be difficult to extinguish it under any 
circumstances, and if it passed through near the water-mark, 
almost impossible. Under these circumstances, ships lying 
low in the water, might possibly have an advantage over 
larger ones, from being less exposed to the fire of an enemy. 
If ever the weapon should be used in war, it is only to be 
hoped that it may have a fair and impartial trial; and if it 
stand the test, the consequences may be considerable. 
xMDCCCXXVIt 
D 
