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29
sperm candles. The results of my experiments are
below those of other observers, and this arises from the
se of a burner called the " Lava burner," which gives
a apparent higher result by two candles ; this burner
as not in use when the present law in relation to gas
as passed, and therefore I continue to employ the old
gand burner. 1 have analysed the water of the pump
n Duncannon-street, and find that it contains 56 grains
f solid matter to the gallon, of which 4 is organic
latter. The pump in Long-acre contains 80 grains of
Dreign matter in a gallon, of which 8 grains is of
niraal and vegetable origin. The New River water
;ives a gross impurity of 18 grains per gallon, of which
grain is organic matter. The pump in Covent
xarden usually contains about 50 grains per gallon.
All spring waters contain more saline matter in solu;on
than river water, but it does not follow from this
act alone that spring water is more unfit for drinking
;han river water. Provided the matter in solution consists
of neutral salts, there is no reason to believe that
it is ever injurious to health. The universal preference
given to spring water for drinking is said by some to be
from the flavour and sparkling character given by the
very impurities contained in it. It may even be
granted that some of the saline matter in well water
has been of animal or vegetable origin; but if the decomposition
has passed away, and the recomposition of
neutral salts lias been complete, the mere fact of having
been of former organic destruction is no good reason
for condemning these waters. As well might we condemn
wheat or other vegetable food which has been
produced by former vegetable or animal destruction.
All our bodies are composed of parts which have passed
through the processes of decomposition. The question
as to the use of the surface well water of London is
becoming daily of more importance. The mains of our
water companies are almost all poisoned by the admix-