itssyn o Library of the University of Toronto J I m ■ «- * ► ■‘■-'■i ■ * * > , • ♦ ♦ # * ’ # 9 m • , ■ * ' ' \ t * * /*; • . - * * ■ • t * • *; * , r • * * ;s > * « • * v , * * • ♦ - . * * . • • . . *! • • ' ' * „ . ' s . ' ; * • * . " •• •> •• V- t J v • FIFO NT I kj) P II IE l € ft X 180 Jft X 80 A TREATISE ON THE Cflitstntdmit, AVrojjcr Use, anb Capabilities OF SMITH, BECK, AND BECK'S ACHROMATIC MICROSCOPES. BY RICHARD BECK. LONDON: PRINTED FOR SMITH, BECIv, AND BECK, 31, CORNHILL: PUBLISHED BY JOHN VAN VOORST, PATERNOSTER ROW. MDCCCLXV. PRINTED BY TAYLOR AND FRANCIS, BED LION COURT, FLEET STREET. INTRODUCTION. The purpose of this work is to give, by a clear and con¬ cise description, combined with superior illustrations, the most complete directions for the use of Smith, Beck, and Beck’s Achromatic Microscopes and the accessory appa¬ ratus. The publication has been much delayed by various causes which it is unnecessary to explain at length. It may, however, he mentioned that a considerable amount of matter is now included in the work, which it could not have contained at a much earlier issue ; such, for instance, as a description of Wenham’s Binocular Body, the third- class “ Popular Microscope,” and several new pieces of apparatus. By giving more time than was at first intended to the preparation of this treatise, the Author has been able to allude more particularly to some of the peculiar fea¬ tures connected with the illumination of objects under the Microscope. Great care has also been bestowed upon the delineation of test-objects; for, preceded as this work has been by many others upon the same subject, no one has given satisfactory evidence, by illustration, of IV INTRODUCTION. that superior performance which belongs especially to the English Microscopes. This treatise is strictly confined to the subjects already mentioned; for although the improvement of the Micro¬ scope is intimately connected with much that has been done by its aid, it is impossible in this work to make any satisfactory reference to that wide range of observation which is so continually extending with the increase of the power of the instrument. In concluding this introduction, the firm of Smith, Beck, and Beck have gratefully to acknowledge the assist¬ ance they have received, whilst improving the Microscope, from the suggestions or from the contrivances of many amateurs, and especially from those of the late Mr. George Jackson and Mr. Wenham. But it is not with a simple mention only that any author on the Achromatic Micro¬ scope is justified in passing over the name of Mr. Lister, all the manufacturers of the improved instrument in England being indebted to him for that theoretical and practical information at the outset, which has enabled them to advance it to its present state of perfection. Erom Mr. Lister’s designs and suggestions various improvements were made in the arrangement and the appendages of the Microscope; but his attention was especially directed to the object-glasses, for the construc¬ tion of which he not only determined the principle, but also recommended those combinations of lenses which, either unaltered or with modifications, are adhered to at the present day by the best makers. INTRODUCTION. Y Prom consideration for those who were engaged in the manufacture, he abstained from taking credit for these; and various misstatements since published having been allowed to pass without notice, his valuable services have lately been alluded to in a manner most superficial and erroneous. Upper Holloway, March 1865. .. CONTENTS. Page First- and Second-class Achromatic Microscopes . 1-8 Microscope-Stands ; The Stage ; The Mirror ; The Sub¬ stage ; Revolving and Folding Bases ; Eyepieces ; Ob¬ ject-glasses ; Universal Screw ; J^th Object-glasses. Directions for use of Microscope ; Transmitted Illumination . 8-23 The Mirror ; The Diaphragm ; The Achromatic Condenser ; Tests for Object-glasses ; Adjustment for High Powers ; The Podura-scale ; Methods of measuring Aperture ; “Lined Objects” as Tests; Nobert’s Lines; Oblique Illumination. Illumination from above . . . 23-34 Side Condensing- Lenses ; Side Silver Reflector; Lieber- kuhns ; Forceps ; Opaque Disk-revolver ; Splinter of Lucifer Match ; Podura-scale ; Tarsus of Spider ; Feather of Pigeon ; Arachnoidiscus Japonicus. Dark-field Illumination . 34-36 Erecting-Glass for Low Power and Dissection . 36, 37 Polarized Light, as applied to the Microscope . 37-48 Nicol’s Prisms ; The Selenite Plate ; Darker’s Retarding- plates of Selenite ; Darker’s Selenite Stage ; Tourma¬ lines ; Polarizers for large objects ; Experiments with Double-image Prisms ; Crystals to show Rings. Wenham’s Binocular Body for Achromatic Microscope . 48-55 Sundry Apparatus . 55-70 Live-boxes and Trough ; Screw Live-box ; Lever Com¬ pressor; Wenham’s Compressor ; Reversible Compress- Vlll CONTENTS. Page ors ; Frog Plate ; Camera Lucida ; Micrometers ; Indi¬ cator ; Double and Quadruple Nosepieces ; Leeson’s Goniometer; Maltwood’s Finder; Microscope Lamps and Table. Cases for First- and Second-class Microscopes . 70-72 The Third-class Microscopes . 73-92 The Popular Microscope ; Series of Object-glasses-; Descrip¬ tion of Stand ; Diaphragm ; Side Condenser ; Forceps ; Glass Plate ; Pliers ; Case ; Binocular Body ; Mechanical Stage ; Achromatic Condenser ; Lieberkuhns ; Dark Well ; Parabolic Reflector ; Polarizing Apparatus ; Ca¬ mera Lucida ; Micrometer ; Live-box ; Trough ; The Educational Microscope; Diaphragm; Forceps; Tray for extra Apparatus. The Fourth-class Microscope. The Universal . 93-101 Object-glasses ; Eyepieces ; Forceps, Pliers, and Glass Plate ; Extra Apparatus and Box ; Mechanical Stage ; Combined Body ; Binocular Body. Single Microscopes and Magnifiers . 102-113 Darwin’s Dissecting Microscope and Apparatus ; Improved ditto, with Binocular arrangement ; Patent Achromatic Binocular Magnifiers and Stand ; Hand-magnifier and Stand for ditto ; Coddington Lenses. Instruments used in preparing Objects . ; . 113-119 Knives ; Points ; Hooks ; Needle-holder ; Scissors ; For¬ ceps; Quekett’s Forceps ; Wood-cutting Machine. Instruments and Materials used in mounting Objects . 119-130 Glass and other Slips ; Cutting and Writing Diamonds ; Thin Glass ; The Disk-cutter ; Canada Balsam ; Brass Table and Lamp ; Page’s Forceps ; Deane’s Medium ; Farrants’ Medium ; Glass and other Cells ; Gold Size and Asphalt ; Cell-machine ; Glass Cells ; Labels ; Small Glass Bottles ; Case for Instruments and Materials. Cabinets and Microscopic Objects 130-134 A TREATISE ON ACHROMATIC MICROSCOPES. Description of Construction. A Compound Achromatic Microscope consists essentially of two parts, an object-glass and an eyepiece — so called be¬ cause they are respectively near the object and the eye when the instrument is in use. The object-glass screws, and the eyepiece slides, into opposite ends of a tube termed the “ body,” and upon the union of the two the magnifying power depends. The microscope-stand is an arrangement for carry¬ ing the body ; and is combined with a stage for holding or giving traverse to an object, and a mirror or some other provision for illumination. Microscope-Stands. Three microscope-stands are shown, one-third their size, in Plates II., III. & IV.; they differ from each other in con¬ struction, but the following explanations will apply to all. B CONSTRUCTION OF STANDS. The joint at (A) allows the body (B) to be placed in a vertical, horizontal, or any intermediate position ; and for the adjustment of the focus of the object-glass, a quick motion is obtained by turning either of the large milled heads (C), a smaller one (D) giving a slow motion. The Stage. The stage has a ledge (F), upon which- the object is most frequently merely placed, but if necessary it can be clamped by carefully bringing down the spring-piece (G); the ledge will slide up or down, and the object may be pushed side¬ ways*: these are the only provisions for moving the object in the plain stage (Plate IV. fig. 2) ; but in the other “ stages with actions ” this arrangement forms the coarse adjustment, — finer movements in directions at right angles to each other being effected by the milled heads (H, I) ; and that part also to which the ledge is attached will rotate. The Mirror. The mirror (K) is flat on one side and concave on the other; it swings in a rotating semicircle (L), which will slide up and down the stem (M), or can be turned on either side. The Substage. As the mirror alone is insufficient for many kinds of illumination, some provision has to be made for holding vari¬ ous pieces of apparatus between the object and the mirror. In the first-class instruments a cylindrical fitting or “ short * In the plain stage the spring-piece (G) is almost invariably used, to supply some slight resistance, and thereby to steady the side movement of the object, which is directly dependent upon the fingers. . OBJECT-GLASSES. 3 body” (T) is mounted perfectly true with the body, and can be moved up or down by rack and pinion connected with the milled heads (U, Plates II. & III.). In the second-class instruments a short piece of tube (Plate IV. fig. 2, P), equally true in its position as in the former case, fits by a bayonet- catch into the bottom plate of the stage ; but it has no rack movement. The way in which the several pieces of appa¬ ratus fit into these substage receiving-pieces will be explained in each particular case. Revolving and Folding Bases. In the two first-class instruments there is a revolving fitting on the base (N), by which means the microscope can be turned round without being lifted from the table. Each of these stands can also be made exceedingly portable for their size by the application of a folding base and a removeable stage ; the exact dimensions of their cases under such circum¬ stances are specified in our priced catalogues. The Eyepieces. There are generally three eyepieces, distinguished by the numbers 1, 2, or 3 (see Plate V.) : but it is not unusual, in the examination of many object-glasses by test-objects, to employ eyepieces of still higher power, and we then supply a No. 4 or a No. 5 in addition; the latter magnifies about twice as much as the No. 3, and the former is intermediate. The Object-glasses. The object-glasses (see Plate V.) are numerous, and vary in many particulars ; the list of them on page 5 may there¬ fore require a few explanations. B 2 4 OBJECT-GLASSES. The “ focal length” is in each instance that of a single lens magnifying the same as the object-glass. The numbers given under “ linear magnifying power ” (or, as they are sometimes termed, “ diameters ”) must be squared, to give the superficial measurement or real increase of size. The magnifying power is increased with the same object- glass by changing the eyepiece from a lower to that of a higher power, the extreme range being from No. 1 to No. 5 ; and also when both the object-glass and the eyepiece are the same, by pulling out the draw-tube of the body. This tube, shown at full length in Plate II. fig. 3, serves several purposes, which will be alluded to further on ; it may, how¬ ever, be mentioned here, that the graduations of inches and tenths on this tube should generally be kept on the left-hand side. The “ aperture ” is the measurement in degrees of the cone of light admitted by each object-glass. The erecting-glass (Plate V. fig. 4) has a special notice at p. 36. Many particulars connected with the use of the object-glasses are supplied in other parts of this treatise; and we will only add here, in connexion with the list, that we have made most of these object-glasses for many years. The construction of some of them was for a long time peculiar to ourselves ; and although both this and their nomenclature have been copied by others, we are still persuaded that the attention we give to them in every respect obtains a large amount of favour with microscopists. Another list of object-glasses, which we term our Edu¬ cational Series, is given further on, in the description of our third-class instruments. OBJECT-GLASSES. 5 List of Achromatic Object-glasses. Focal length. 1| inch inch yij- inch inch | inch 4 inch l inch £ inch 21J inch Linear magnifying power nearly, with eyepieces No. 1. No. 2. No. 3. No. 4. No. 5. Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 12 20 40 48 74 for each inch . 2 4 6 7 10 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 20 38 70 85 130 for each inch . 4 6 8 12 15 Draw-tube closed ... Ditto if drawn out, add 30 56 100 120 190 for each inch . 5 7 12 15 22 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 70 120 220 270 410 for each inch . 8 14 25 27 48 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 120 210 370 460 710 for each inch . 14 24 34 46 70 Draw- tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 146 255 460 560 890 for each inch . 18 32 48 60 80 Draw- tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 200 340 590 720 1120 for each inch . 24 42 63 85 120 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 225 400 700 860 1450 for each inch . 18 35 60 80 130 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 225 400 700 860 1450 for each inch . 18 35 60 80 130 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 500 870 1500 1850 2800 for each inch . 60 100 180 190 370 Draw-tube closed .... Ditto if drawn out, add 900 1570 2750 3450 4950 for each inch . 80 150 300 350 900 Degrees of angle of aper¬ ture, about 12 18 23 35 55 90 75 85 100 120 140 The list of magnifying powers, as given above, is only approximate ; but if the exact power of any object-glass be required, it may be easily obtained in the way described at page 63. 6 ONE-TWENTIETH OBJECT-GLASS. The “ Universal Screw.” All the object-glasses in both lists are made with what is called the “ universal screw ” — a standard size which the principal microscope-makers of England have adopted for the attachment of the object-glass to the instrument. When this uniformity of screw was proposed by the Microscopical Society of London, we immediately approved the suggestion, and also established a series of gauges connected with Whit¬ worth’s standard sizes, which have been found to answer most satisfactorily*. The -jjj tli Object-glass. The most important addition we have made of late to our object-glasses is the -^th. This high power is constructed for the examination of those objects which require the greatest amount of amplification, hut not that extreme angle of aperture which involves the employment of the very thinnest glass and the most careful preparation of the object. The -^th will adjust through any covering-glass not more than '005 in. thick; and, when in focus, there is sufficient space between the front lens and the object to admit of its use in the examination of ordinary preparations : under these con¬ ditions it can be employed with the same facility as an object- glass of only half the power. In Plate XXIV. are illustrations of two objects, selected from the animal and vegetable kingdoms; these are shown as they appear under a -2\th, with the No. 1 eyepiece, the linear magnifying power being about 900 linear. Fig. 1 is the under side of the head and thorax of the Demodex folli- * Quarterly Journal of Microscopical Science, July 1859, “ Remarks on the Universal Screw.” By Richard Beck. (Read May 26th, 1859.) ONE-TWENTIETH OBJECT-GLASS. 7 culorum , a minute parasite infesting the sebaceous and hair- follicles of the human skin. They are easily obtained by pressing out the contents of the follicles on the sides or bridge of the nose : if this matter be gently stirred up with a small camel’ s-hair pencil in a little olive oil, the parasites become disengaged, and should be removed to a small quantity of fresh oil, with a piece of thin glass placed over ; and under this pressure they will retain their life and correct appearance for one or two days. The legs are very short, apparently composed of three joints, and the last one is terminated by a single claw : each leg is moved in a very deliberate manner, and describes a semicircular course at its extremity ; during the backward stroke the claw is retracted, but it is jerked out again rapidly at the commencement of the forward movement. There are two organs (A, B) at the side of the head, which are perhaps palpi; they are constantly moved up or down during life, and are apparently provided with two flaps as a means of clasping. The parts occupying the central portion of the head may represent the mandibles and a labium ; but this parasite is altogether a remarkable instance of the dif¬ ficulty of determining the exact organization of a transparent object. The magnifying power is abundantly sufficient for the purpose; but, owing to the refraction of the light through the denser parts, and the upper and the under sur¬ faces being equally apparent in the thinner parts, it has only been after an examination of many specimens for several days that we have been able to determine the structure so far as it is here shown, whilst we know there is still much left in perfect obscurity. Figs. 2 and 3 are respectively the front and profile views of the stinging-hairs from the stem of the common 8 MANAGEMENT OE THE LIGHT. nettle ( Urtica dioica). It appears at first sight somewhat surprising that these hairs, which are known to enter the skin with so slight a touch, should have a blunt bulbous ex¬ tremity ; but this is the very provision for the peculiar effect they produce. When any slight pressure is brought upon the extremity of the hair, the bulbous part breaks off, leaving an exceedingly sharp-cutting point (see fig. 4), admirably adapted for entering the skin, at the same time making an aperture at the extremity of the hair, from which the contents of the cell escape and enter the puncture. When the hairs are young and unbroken, a beautiful circulation is visible. Objects of this class can be examined under the ^th with as much facility as under a ^th ; the conditions being such as to cause many high powers of large aperture to be per¬ fectly useless. Directions for Use of Microscope. — Management of the Light. For general purposes the body of the microscope is inclined as shown in the Plates, but this position is varied according to circumstances. The light should, if possible, be on the left of the observer : the best is that from a white cloud on a bright day ; but a most satisfactory effect can be obtained from a wax or Palmer’s candle if protected by a glass, a good oil-lamp, or an argand gas-burner, provided they are not more than 10 or 12 inches from the microscope', but with all the artificial means of illumination there should be some arrangement for raising or lowering the light, and for holding a shade as a protection to the eyes (see Description of Lamps). In the examination of an object choose the object-glass that appears best suited for it, remembering that in investi- THE DIAPHRAGM. 9 gation it is best to begin with the lower powers for a general view, and afterwards to ascend to the higher, which give greater detail of minute parts. The right management of the light is indispensable for obtaining beauty of picture and fine definition, and is only to be acquired by practice ; for the illumination must be varied with different objects, and often even with the same to exhibit every feature. Every microscopic object may be said to be either trans¬ parent or opaque : this is not strictly correct, as will be seen hereafter, but the distinction is made here for the sake of division. The Mirror. The illumination of a transparent object is most frequently produced by reflexion from the mirror (K) below, which should generally have its centre coincident with the axis of the body. The flat side is sometimes preferable when there is abundance of light by day; but artificial light almost always requires the concave mirror to condense the light to a focus upon the object. The Diaphragm. With the T^ths and lower powers the light is generally in excess, and has to be diminished by one of the smaller openings of the diaphragm (P), which is attached to the under part of the stage : its perforated plate will revolve, and each hole when central is stopped by a weak spring. If it be necessary to remove the diaphragm altogether, it will slide off at its fitting (Plate II. fig. 2, R); and the plain circular ring (S) which is then left can also be detached from its bayonet-fitting to the stage, by turning it in the direction of the arrow. 10 THE ACHROMATIC CONDENSER. With the higher powers there is seldom too much light ; but the diaphragm must often be removed altogether; and the mirror requires the most careful adjustment by its dif¬ ferent movements, especially that by which it can be moved up or down on the stem (M), to ensure its exact focus being thrown upon the object. It must be borne in mind that by daylight the rays are parallel, and then the focus of a con¬ cave mirror will be much shorter than by an artificial light, which cannot be used advantageously at more than 10 or 12 inches from the microscope. The Achromatic Condenser. When the nicest illumination by the mirror fails to exhibit the structure of an object, or the best definition of an object- glass, an achromatic condenser must be employed : this is a combination of lenses by which the light is concentrated to a minute spot upon the object, without the colour and other defects which would be produced by a single lens alone. Of the two mirrors, the flat one should be invariably used ; but as this gives a somewhat imperfect reflexion which interferes with the very best definition, a right-angle prism (Plate VI. fig. 4), which fits on the mirror-stem of the best instrument, is sometimes employed instead of the mirror; or the lamp may be placed at the end of the microscope, in a direct line with the body. In the first-class instruments (Stands Nos. 1 & 2) the achro¬ matic condenser is mounted, as shown in Plate VI. fig. 2, and fits by its tube (a) into the top of the cylindrical fitting (Plates II. & III., T) under the stage; in the second-class Stand, it slides by its fitting (Plate VI. fig. 1, h) into the short tube under the stage (Plate IV. .fig. 2, R). When the achromatic condenser is in use, it must be central with THE ACHROMATIC CONDENSER. 11 the body of the microscope : this may be tested by screwing a low power on the instrument, and if the top of the con- densing-lens should not appear in the centre of the field of view, the necessary movements can be made by turning the small milled heads (c, c) ; and these, to be convenient for use with the right hand, should be in the position shown in the drawing. The change of object-glasses involved in this plan of centering may be obviated in the first-class microscopes by sliding into the lower end of the cylindrical fitting (Plates II. & III., T), the diaphragm (Plate VI. fig. 3), when its smallest opening should appear as a bright spot in the middle of the field of view (see fig. 7). The achromatic condenser may, however, be so eccentric as to require a larger opening in the diaphragm to be used first. Or if the spot of light does not appear defined on the edge (see fig. 5), the cylindrical fitting must be moved up or down by either of the milled heads (Plates II. and III., U). The small milled heads ( c , c ) are used under the same circumstances as before mentioned, and full illumination is obtained by turning on the largest opening of the diaphragm. The achromatic condenser in the second-class Stands will slide up and down in the circular ring (Plate IV. fig. 2, R) ; and if slightly rotated at the same time, the movement can be' made very exactly . In the first-class Stands the cylinder (Plates II. & III., T) will rack up or down by turning either of the milled heads (U). This rackwork, if connected with the achromatic condenser, serves for the adjustment of its focus, which should generally be thrown upon the object. When such is the case, the image of the flame by artificial light, or of the window-bars or objects in the landscape by day, will be seen in the microscope at the same time as the object. Moving the mirror or right-angle prism will not alter the 12 TESTS FOE OBJECT-GLASSES. adjustments, and any particular cloud, or part of the flame, can be selected for the illumination. Another essential point is the aperture of the condensing-lenses ; this is reduced from 65 to 40 degrees by removing the front lens (Plate VI. figs. 1 & 2, d). But in the most complete arrangement a perforated plate (fig. 6) is inserted at the back of the lenses, as shown in fig. 2 ; in this position it can be rotated on its axis ( e ), and the openings near its circumference can be brought in succession behind the lenses, each aperture of the plate being stopped by a slight spring when central. Five of the openings vary the aperture from 90 to 45 degrees with the front lens ( d ), and without it from 50 to 25, whilst the other three apertures cut off the rays of light in the centre and admit only those at the circumference. Some additional instructions for the use of the achromatic condenser will be found in those parts of this treatise where the higher powers, and test-objects, are considered. Tests for Object-glasses. The principal points on which an object-glass has to be examined are, the spherical and chromatic aberrations, the aperture, flatness of field, and workmanship. When the term “achromatic”* is applied to an object-glass, it is in¬ ferred that all the errors consequent upon the refraction of light through its lenses are reduced to a minimum; with such a result the object-glass is called “ corrected.” And in connexion with the spherical and chromatic aberrations, the term “under-” or “over-corrected” is applied as the right point is exceeded or otherwise, — a single lens being regarded as “ under-corrected.” * Achromatic really signifies the absence of colour only. ADJUSTMENT FOE HIGH POWERS. 13 Spherical aberration, which is the extension of the focus of a lens, can be entirely corrected, so that an object shall appear sharp and defined in one decided plane ; whilst, with a proper object, the appearance a little within, or as much beyond, the point of distinct vision will be the same. It is impossible, so far as is yet known, entirely to correct chromatic aberration ; but this aberration or separation of light into various colours, with which every one is so familiar in connexion with prisms and single lenses, can, by a proper combination of lenses, be so far counteracted as to leave only a pale green, resulting from the union of blue and yellow, which is inoffensive and quite immaterial. Adjustment for High Powers. In the higher powers, both of these aberrations are con¬ siderably affected by variations of the thickness in the covers of objects; for if an achromatic object-glass be corrected for an object which is completely uncovered, a piece of thin glass or any fluid, placed between the object and the object- glass, will alter that correction and produce indistinctness. It is not perceptible in the lower powers, but in the higher powers the error caused by the thinnest covering-medium becomes injurious. To provide against this, the and object-glasses have a moveable collar divided into ten. divi- r - 1 sions (c) (see accompanying figure), by turn- N| - — f 9j ({) l[ 2^ ing which the distance is varied between the front lens and those behind it. When the object is uncovered, 0 on the screw-collar should stand opposite the small screw («), and the line on the small piece of brass (b) which is let into the tube (d) should coincide © a e h Uncov l 5 d 14 THE PODURA-SCALE. with the line (e) engraved “ uncovered” : this is as far as the collar will go in that direction. For covered objects the collar must be turned from the uncovered point, so that the numbers 1, 2, 3, &c. come in succession opposite the small screw. It is best in practice to have the object-glass on the microscope, move the collar a little at a time, focus for each alteration, and carefully watch the appearance of the object until the best definition is obtained. This mode of adjustment can be easily and very correctly made if the object be well known to the observer, or if its structure be simple and distinctly marked : the latter is peculiarly the case with the Podura-scale, and as it is easily obtained we consider it one of the very best tests. The Podura-Scale . The Frontispiece shows the correct appearance of a small but coarse specimen under different object-glasses with the No. 3 eyepiece; but Plate VII. more directly refers to the matter now under consideration. Each of the first six figures in this Plate represents y^oth °f an inch square, con¬ sequently the magnifying power is about 1300 linear, ob¬ tained by the yth object-glass and the third eyepiece. The illumination employed is that of a small lamp, close to the microscope, with its light reflected by the right-angle prism so as to pass through the achromatic condenser, which, besides being carefully centred and focused, is found to produce the best effect in this case with the smallest aperture and without the front lens. The light will be reflected most brilliantly when it is placed a little behind the right-angle prism, as shown in the annexed diagram ; a being the light, b the THE PODURA-SCALE. 15 right-angle prism, and c the direction of the light passing to the achromatic condenser. Good daylight will answer quite as well ; and nearly the same results can be obtained with the concave mirror alone. The drawings referred to have been very carefully made by aid of the camera lucida (the use of this piece of appa¬ ratus is described at p. 61) ; and whilst some size and pro¬ minence have been given to the features, great care has been taken not to exaggerate any one of the appearances. Fig. 1 gives a representation of the markings when there are no errors in the object-glass. Its adjustment is known to be correct by the object presenting the same perfectly in¬ distinct appearance (fig. 2) when thrown a very little either within or beyond the focus, and also, when this is done, by each marking dividing equally, somewhat as shown in fig. 3. If the adjustment be incorrect, the appearances within and beyond the focus are never similar, but on the one side there will be strong lines (fig. 4), and on the other side a still greater indistinctness than that shown at fig. 2 (see fig. 5) ; whilst the best focus under such circumstances shows the markings in a general fog (fig. 6), without either the sharp black sides or the white central spot shown in fig. 1. The exactness with which an error in adjustment can be detected is one of the best qualities of a test ; and with this particular structure, using a yth or ^-th object-glass, a vari¬ ation of -nrooth an inch i11 the distance of the lenses, or about half a division on the screw-collar, can be easily de¬ tected by a practised eye. Any chromatic aberration, as excess of colour, will be im¬ mediately seen in the light spaces between the markings of this object. 16 ADJUSTMENT FOR HIGTI POWERS. The spherical aberration should be entirely corrected so far as the adjustment by the screw-collar will work ; this varies in each object-glass: thus the -nyths has a range of about 2^r turns, equivalent to 25 divisions, and will correct for glass about *025 thick ; the ^th has 2 turns for glass measuring *02 ; and the one turn of the -g-th will only adjust for a thick¬ ness of '012. Whilst on this subject, we would caution some persons against concluding that an object-glass with a move- able collar must necessarily possess an adjustment; we have seen many instances in which such an arrangement made no alteration in the correction, and other cases in which the alteration that was made exactly reversed the proper condi¬ tions. With such an object as the Podura-scale, it is not at all difficult to establish a rule for the adjustment which shall be entirely independent of the appearance presented by the object; for if, after such an adjustment as has just been made, we measure the thickness of the covering-glass, first by focusing its upper surface, which is almost sure to have dust or spots upon it, and then noticing how many divisions of the slow-motion milled head of the microscope it takes to bring the object in focus, a comparison of these divisions with those recorded in the former observation will supply the standard. As, for example, the Podura-scale shown in Plate VII. is covered with a piece of glass, and when the appearance is correct, the collar of the ^th object- glass is moved five divisions ; and it takes .six divisions on the slow-motion milled head to focus from the top to the under surface of the thin covering-glass ; so that if, with the same object-glass, the cover of another object measure 9 divisions of the slow-motion milled head, 7 '9 divisions must be taken on the collar of the object-glass. If the body of the microscope be lengthened by pulling APERTURE OF OBJECT-GLASSES. 17 out the draw-tube, some further correction is required for the ^-y-ths : thus, for 1 inch drawn out, add two divisions on the collar, for 3 inches four, and for 4 inches five divisions. The object-glasses of higher power are not so much altered by lengthening the body; but with the -^th and |4h, one division may be advantageously added for the first 3 inches drawn out. In the lower powers an object should not differ in appear¬ ance, or require any alteration of focus, if moved from the centre to the edge of the field of view. This “flatness of field ” is not of so much importance in the higher powers, and it is seldom obtained in them, especially when the aper¬ ture is large ; but its absence the Podura-scale will show to a remarkable degree. Aperture, as before stated, is the measurement in degrees of the cone of light admitted by the object-glass; and the definition is dependent upon it, provided the object-glass is at the same time well corrected. In the lower powers it is difficult under such conditions to exceed a certain point, whereas in the higher powers it may be said there is no limit within about 170°; but it must be remembered that the use¬ fulness of an object-glass is destroyed when the range of adjustment, or the distance between the front of the object- glass and the object, is sacrificed to an increase of the angle of aperture. With the Podura-scale a larger aperture in the lower powers is evidenced by the mere fact of seeing the markings, and in the higher powers with the deeper eye¬ pieces it gives a remarkable blackness and brilliancy to the picture; but, as a real test of aperture, the Podura-scale is not equal to many other objects, more especially to those siliceous valves of the Diatomacese which show lines under oblique illumination. After all, however, the only certain c 18 METHODS OF MEASURING APERTURE. mode of ascertaining the aperture is by some mechanical means. Methods of measuring Aperture. Of these the simplest is that known as Mr. Wenham’s, in which, by merely holding an object-glass in front of a strong light, the angle of the cone of light issuing from the front lens can he measured by means of a divided semicircular card (see Plate VI. fig. 14) ; but care must be taken to keep the focus of the object-glass in the centre, and also in the plane of the semicircle. This plan, however, at the best, is only intended to give a general estimate within a few degrees. The aperture may be much more exactly measured by the instrument shown in Plate VI. fig. 12. This consists of a semicircular piece of wood about 8 inches in radius, divided into degrees on its edge ( a , «), with a narrow slip of wood ( f) carrying two V-pieces ( b , b) turning on the centre ( 3 A, B, is the glass slide with scales, c, c, closely adherent to it, and D the thin glass cover secured to A, B, by a very little paste at the corners : in this state the wThole should be placed under the microscope, — a high power, such as a ^th and No. 3 eyepiece with achromatic condenser illumination, answering well. If under these circumstances a small drop of water, E, be placed at the edge of the thin glass, it will run under by capillary attraction ; but when it reaches one of the scales, it will run first between it and the glass slip A, B, because the attraction there will be greater, and consequently the markings on that side of the scale which is in contact with the glass slip will be obliterated, whilst those on the other side will, for some time at least, remain unaltered ; when such is the case, the strongly marked vertical lines disappear and the radiating ones become continuous (see Plate XIX. fig. 4, left-hand lower portion). To try the same experiment with the other, or inner, surface of the scales, it is only requisite to transfer them by pressing the first piece of glass, by which they are taken from the insect, upon another piece of glass, to which a few scales will adhere ; and then the same process of introducing fluid, as already de¬ scribed, may be repeated with them, when the radiating lines will disappear and the vertical ones will become con¬ tinuous (see fig. 4, right-hand side of scale). These results show, therefore, that the interrupted appearance is produced by two sets of uninterrupted lines on different surfaces. 3 52 CONSTRUCTION OR BINOCULAR MICROSCOPE. It may be interesting to many to try these experiments for themselves, whilst others may be satisfied with the appearance which some scales are almost sure to present in every slide that is mounted. Fig. 4, already alluded to, is a camera-lucida drawing of a scale which happens to have the opposite surfaces obliterated on either side : this is seldom the case, for it is generally only the outer surface of the scale that is in such a condition. Fig. 1 shows a small scale in a dry and natural state, the direction of the markings upon which is shown by the faint lines : at the upper part ( a ) the interrupted appearance is not much unlike that seen at the sides of the larger scales ; but lower down, at b, where the lines are of equal strength and cross nearly at right angles, they are entirely lost in a series of dots ; and exactly the same appearance is shown in fig. 2 to be produced by two scales at the part ( c ) where they over- lie each other, although by themselves they only show the parallel vertical lines. These kinds of contradictory results produced by the re¬ fraction of light, combined with an illumination to which the naked eye is unaccustomed, make the binocular micro¬ scope of little avail in the examination of true transparent objects; but with those specimens that are opaque, or nearly so, its assistance is most remarkable, and we do not know a single object of this class in which its use is not essential. Construction of Binocular Microscope. The only plan for a binocular microscope, as yet known to be practicable, is the equal division of the rays after they have passed through the object-glass, so that each eye may be furnished with an appropriate one-sided view of the ob¬ ject. The methods at first contrived to effect this not only CONSTRUCTION OF BINOCULAR MICROSCOPE. 53 materially injured the definition of the object-glasses, but also required expensive alterations in their adaptation, or more frequently still a separate stand ; whereas the following arrangement, contrived by Mr. Wenham, forms no obstacle to the ordinary use of the instrument, and the definition even of the highest powers with the binocular body is scarcely im¬ paired. It consists of a small prism mounted in a brass box (Plate XX. fig. 3), which slides into an opening immediately above the object-glass (fig. 1, I), and reflects one half of the rays, which form an image of the object, into an additional tube (B) attached at an inclination to the ordinary body (C). One half of the rays take the usual course, with their con¬ ditions unaltered ; and the remainder, although reflected twice, show no loss of light or definition worthy of notice, if the prism be well made. As the eyes of different persons are not the same distance apart, the first and most important point to observe in using the “ binocular ” is, that each eye has a full and clear view of the object; this is easily tried by closing each eye alter¬ nately without moving the head, when it may be found that some adjustment is necessary by racking out the draw-tubes (D, E) by the milled head (K), which will increase the distance of the centres; or when moved in the contrary direction, they will suit those eyes that are nearer together. If the prism be drawn back until stopped by its catch (fig. 3, F), the field of view in the inclined body is darkened, and the whole aperture of the object-glass passes into the main body as usual, neither the prism nor the additional body interfering in any way with the ordinary use of the microscope. By pressing back the spring-catch (fig. 3, F) of the prism, it can be withdrawn altogether for the purpose of being wiped ; this should be done frequently and very care- 3 54 CONSTRUCTION OF BINOCULAR MICROSCOPE. fully, on all four surfaces , with a perfectly clean cambric or silk handkerchief or a piece of wash-leather ; but no hard substance must be used. This construction of binocular body can be applied to any of the microscope-stands already described and drawn with the single body only. The first few plates of this work were engraved before Mr. Wenham’s contrivance, or the illustra¬ tions would have included a binocular body in each instance, as it is now but seldom that we send out instruments with only the single body. The most suitable kind of illumination for the binocular microscope has been already alluded to, and includes all those methods in which the light is thrown upon the upper surface ; but for those objects that are semitransparent, as sections of bone or teeth, Diatomacese, living aquatic ani¬ malcules, &c., the dark-field illumination, by means of the parabolic reflector, will give a very good result. For the illumination of perfectly transparent objects, it is best to diffuse the light by placing various substances under the ob¬ ject, such as tissue-paper, ground glass, very thin porcelain, or a thin film of bees-wax run between two pieces of thin glass. When employing the polarizing apparatus with the “ bin¬ ocular,” the analyzer is fitted into an adapter (fig. 2), which applies immediately between the object-glass and the prism, with the means of revolving the prism by turning its tube round at opposite slots in the sides of the adapter, and the effects are exceedingly beautiful. Although the binocular body makes the various features of an object so distinct and so easy to distinguish, yet the representation of them in drawings is extremely difficult, be¬ cause the stereoscopic appearance can only be given by the % LIVE-BOXES AND TROUGH. 55 management of the shadows : this has been attempted in the following illustrations : — cast skin of silkworm, Plate IX. ; splinter of lucifer-match, Plate XI. ; tarsus of spider and structure of feather, Plate XII. ; Arachnoidiscus Japonicus , Plate XIII. ; and Polycystina from Barbadoes earth, Plate XIV. To see these illustrations with the best result, they should be held so that the light falls on them from the top right-hand corner of the plate; only one eye should be used ; and if the margin round the drawing be cut off by looking through the hand when nearly closed, the effect is considerably improved. Sundry Apparatus. — hive-boxes and Trough. To confine small living objects for examination under the microscope, different pieces of apparatus are used, according to the size or the nature of the object. Those that are dry and active may be secured in a live-box (Plate XXI. figs. 1 & 4). This consists of two parts : the lower piece (fig. 4, a) is a brass plate, with a short piece of tube ( b ) in the centre, carrying a circular piece of thick glass (c) at the top ; over this fits the upper piece or cap (d), carrying a thin glass. The object is held by the pressure of the two glasses, and the amount of separation may be varied at pleasure by sliding the cap more or less on. The thin glass is in a cell, and may be changed or replaced by unscrewing the top milled ring ( e ). A smaller live-box is shown in fig. 1. These pieces of apparatus answer well for many objects in fluid; but if employed in this way, the quantity of water, or whatever it may be, should, if possible, be limited, as shown by the accompanying figure, in which the small central ring represents the appearance of a drop 3 56 LIVE-BOXES AXD TROUGH. of water when held between the glasses of a live-box. The object, if small enough, may be confined thus, either with or without pressure, whereas, if the fluid be in excess, the objects will move about over too large a space, or fre¬ quently they reach the edge of the live-box and disappear altogether. When fluid objects are very small and cannot be injured by moderate pressure, a very simple and efficient plan is to use the plate-slip (fig. 5, a) ; the fluid is placed upon this, and then covered with a thin piece of glass ( b ), which is pre¬ vented sliding off by the ledge. ( d ). The glass trough (figs. 2 & 3) is intended for larger ob¬ jects in water ; it must be used with its thinner plate of glass (fig. 3, a) in front. The modes of confining the objects, and keeping them near the front surface, must vary according to circumstances. For many it is a good plan to place the piece of glass ( b ) diagonally in the trough, its lower edge being kept in its place by a strip (c) at the bottom ; then if the object introduced be heavier than water, it will sink till stopped by the sloping plate ( b ). Sometimes the whalebone¬ spring ( d ) may be applied behind this plate to advantage, with the wedge ( e ) in front to regulate the depth. The glass tubes (fig. 6) are employed to catch any animal¬ cule or other object that may be swimming about in a vessel of water. If a finger be pressed close upon the small opening at the rounded end (a), the other end of the tube may be dipped in the water to any extent without the water entering the tube; but immediately the finger is lifted off, the water rushes up to the same level as that in the vessel, and together with it any animalcules which were near the lower and of the tube ; the finger is placed again upon the small LEVER COMPRESSOR. 57 opening at the top of the tube, which can then be removed, together with its contents, from the vessel. Compressors. In many cases, objects require careful and yet considerable pressure whilst under the microscope, and there are many contrivances for the purpose. Screw Live-box. In the screw live-box (Plate XXI. figs. 9 & 10) the pres¬ sure is produced by two small spiral springs (a, a) acting against the upper plate (£), on the top surface of which a piece of thin glass is held by two springs ( c , c) ; the lower plate holds a thick circular glass, and outside it is a milled ring ( d ), on which the upper plate is constantly pressed ; the distance be¬ tween the two glasses is regulated by the milled ring ( d ), which screws up or down, and two pins ( e , e) prevent the plate turning round. Lever Compressor. The lever compressorium (figs. 13 & 14) has also a thick glass on the bottom plate ; but the thin glass is cemented in a ring at the extremity of an arm or lever («), which is moved up or down by turning the small screw (b). In this instrument the amount of pressure is the force imparted by the screw (£), and it is very considerable ; it is equally distributed over the glasses by the ring ( c ) being swung in the centres ( d , d), and by the semicircle ( e ) having a revolving fitting at (f); the lever (a) can be turned on one side, so as to expose both glasses when they want cleaning, or when the object is to be changed. 58 REVERSIBLE COMPRESSORS. J Wenham’s Compressor. Wenham’s compressor (figs. 7 & 8) was designed especially for use with the parabolic reflector or achromatic condenser. The bottom plate ( a ) is very thin, and a circular thin glass is cemented in the middle ; the top plate ( b ) is a thin brass arm, also carrying a circular thin glass cemented to it; the pressure is imparted by a spring or set which is given to the arm (b), and the two pieces of glass will approach or separate according to the direction in which the small milled head (c) is turned ; the arm will also turn aside, as in the lever compressor. The simple construction of Wenham’s compressor makes it a very easy and convenient instrument to use ; it has, however, one or two disadvantages — the two pieces of glass do not move in parallel directions, and the amount of pressure is rather limited. Reversible Compressors. The next two compressors are our own contrivance, and both of them individually combine in one piece of apparatus the excellences of those already described, together with the following new qualities: viz., a parallel and equal compres¬ sion, with an immediate action up or down ; the means of turning the compressor over, so as to see both sides of an object without disturbing it ; the use of thin glass only either at top or bottom ; and lastly, such restrictions in the thickness of the brass-work as permit the use of the achro¬ matic condenser, or the parabolic reflector, on either side of the object. Mr. Slack suggested the basis of the construction in each case ; he proposed that two oblong pieces of thin glass (fig. 15) should each be secured to a separate brass plate by the heads REVERSIBLE COMPRESSORS. 59 of two screws ; spaces were then to be made for the heads of these screws in each opposing plate, and the two pieces of glass could be brought close together. This simple plan has great advantages : the pieces of glass are easily cut ; for no great nicety of size is required, and they can be changed, or replaced, without difficulty and with little loss of time. The “parallel plate compressor” (figs. 11 & 12) consists of two brass plates, furnished with thin glass, as already described, and connected by four small rods (a) : this is in fact the commonest parallel-rule motion, and very nearly a ver¬ tical one ; for when the plates are near together, the position of the connecting rods is such as to cause no perceptible end- movement. The brass plates, when about y^th of an inch from each other, are kept apart by two springs, which supply the separating power, the compressing force being given by a small screw ( b ) with a conical end, attached to the one plate, working into a corresponding recess in the other plate ; the first hold the point of the screw gets is at the bottom of the recess, so that the plates are drawn together as the screw advances. When the inner surfaces of the thin glasses want cleaning, or when the object or the glasses have to be changed, the screw ( b ) must be brought quite back, and the plates will then separate to the extent of a full inch. In the “cell compressor” (figs. 16, 17, & 18), the thin glasses are secured to two circular plates of brass ; the one fits the ring (fig. 18), and the other the counter ring (fig. 16) of a brass cell (fig. 17, a); when these are screwed together, the plates approach each other, or when unscrewed, they sepa¬ rate, and some slight intermediate brass springs counteract any loss of time that there may be in the screws or in the fittings of the circular plates. Two upright pins in a flat 60 FKOGr PLATE. brass plate (fig. IT, b) pass through both the circular brass plates to prevent them turning round whilst the cell is screwed or unscrewed, and a small screw (c), working by a slight taper against a push-piece ( d ), holds the cell itself firmly in a sunken ring of the brass plate (5), into which it drops. For cleaning the glasses, &c., the circular plates may be entirely separated by unscrewing the cell. The chief novelty in both of these compressors is the opportunity they afford of examining both sides of an object whilst under pressure. The “parallel plate compressor” maybe turned over altogether, and used from either side ; in the “ cell com¬ pressor,” after the push-piece is loosened by slightly un¬ screwing the small milled head (c), the cell will lift out of the sunken ring and off the pins, to be placed on again with whichever side is wished uppermost. Frog Plate. The frog plate (fig. 19) supplies the means for viewing the circulation of the blood in the web of the frog’s foot, and consists of a long thin brass plate («, a ), with a square aperture (b) at one end covered with a piece of glass. A small bag is supplied, in which the whole of the frog is put, except one hind leg ; and to prevent this being drawn in, the neck of the bag should be pulled tight ; the frog, thus con¬ fined, is then secured to the unglazed end of the brass plate by ribbon wound over it and through the holes at the sides of the plate, the ends being held by a spring underneath. The foot is next drawn out over the glass ( b ), and the web extended by fastening to the extremity of the toes, pieces of fine silk which can be wound round the pins ( c , c). The glazed end of the plate must be clamped firmly to the stage of the microscope, and the frog as well as its foot should be CAMERA LUCID A. 61 constantly moistened with cold water; if also a piece of thin glass with water underneath be placed over the part of the web that is under examination, the effect is much im¬ proved. Camera Lucida. Wollaston’s camera lucida, when applied to the achro¬ matic microscope, is of the greatest use and importance ; by its aid the most intricate structure of objects can be drawn with perfect accuracy and to an exact scale. This piece of apparatus (Plate XXII. tigs. 6, 7, & 8) slides on in the place of the cap of either eyepiece, with its flat side (fig. 7, a) uppermost, as shown also in fig. 8, which is a drawing to scale of the camera lucida when in use. The body of the microscope must be in a horizontal position, and a piece of paper laid upon the table should be exactly ten inches from the flat side of the prism. Then if the eye be placed so that its pupil is divided as it were by the edge of the prism (see accompanying figure, in which a represents the pupil of the eye and b the top surface of the prism), the object will appear upon the paper, and can be traced on it by a pencil, the point of which will also be seen. Only one eye is to be used; and the light must be regulated so that no more than is really necessary is upon the object, whilst a full light is thrown upon the paper. Perfect steadiness of the eye is also necessary, and the eyebrow may be gently rested upon the prism-fitting as shown in fig. 8. Any one who cannot see to read distinctly at ten inches should use a lens in the position shown in figs. 6 & 8 ; it must be convex for long sight, and concave for short sight : in general the former only is supplied, but it is easily changed when necessary. It must not be supposed that any carefully finished draw- 62 CAMERA LUCIDA. ing can be made with the camera lucida; this is seldom possible; and when the object to be sketched is irregular on the surface, or larger than the field of view, it often requires no little care and patience to retain the relative position of the parts correctly ; but considerable facility is soon acquired, and when observers who are quite unable to draw from the eye alone succeed in producing a faithful representation of an object, the result is most gratifying and frequently of some value, more especially if the specimen be not permanent. It is well known amongst observers that generally no minute comparison of objects can be made without drawings, and it is almost impossible to obtain such without the aid of the camera lucida ; at the present time there are many illustra¬ tions of objects which are completely puzzling and compara¬ tively worthless because they are not drawn to scale, but merely represent the appearances presented to the eye of the artist. If there be substituted in the place of the object a piece of glass ruled into lOOths and lOOOths of an inch, termed a stage micrometer (fig. 3 or 4), its divisions can be marked on the same or another piece of paper, and by comparing them with the drawing of the object, the most accurate measure¬ ment can be made. The whole of Nobert’s lines (Plate VIII.) and the markings on Navicula rhomboides (Plate VII. fig. 13) were measured in this way. In Plate XXII. fig. 11 is a simple sketch to illustrate the usefulness and capabilities of the camera lucida ; it represents the stellate tissue as occurring in the transverse section of a rush (« Juncus conglomerate ), very commonly used in London for tying up bunches of watercresses. The left-hand portion of the sketch is the mere outline exactly as drawn by the aid of the camera lucida, the right-hand portion being touched THE MICROMETERS. 63 up more or less to show how it may be finished if necessary, and at the bottom are traced lOOths and lOOOths of an inch to serve as a scale for measurement. The magnifying power can be easily ascertained by com¬ paring the magnified stage-micrometer lines traced by aid of the camera lucida with a rule divided into inches and tenths : thus, supposing y^th of an inch, when marked on the paper, to measure 1 -inch and ^%ths, the magnifying power would be 130; but in such calculations particular care must be taken that the distance from the edge of the camera lucida to the paper is exactly 10 inches, as this is the standard distance of distinct vision with the naked eye. The Micrometers. The following is a description by the late Mr. George Jackson, who was the inventor of this method of using micrometers with the compound microscope : — “ In ordinary observation, when no drawing is made, a micrometer in the eyepiece is the readiest method of mea¬ suring. But here it is obvious that we shall be comparing an enlarged image of the object with the divisions themselves, and not with their enlarged image. It is therefore necessary to ascertain the value of these divisions with each of the object-glasses of the microscope; or, in other words, to deter¬ mine the relation which the micrometer in the eyepiece bears to the image of the one on the stage, subject to the same magnifying power that is to be applied to the object to be measured. “ Insert the proper micrometer (Plate XXII. fig. 2) in the eyepiece (see fig. 1), and adjust the upper lens (a) by its screw, so as to see the lines clearly when the light comes through the body of the instrument. Place a micrometer 3 64 THE MICROMETERS. (fig. 3 or 4), divided into lOOths and lOOOths of an inch, on the stage, adjust the focus, and make the two sets of lines parallel by turning the eyepiece; then notice how many divisions in the latter correspond to one in the former. A Suppose that nineteen and a half cover one-hundredth of an inch (fig. 5, a ), by carefully adjusting the length of the draw- tube, the coincidence may be rendered exact at 20 divisions (fig. 5, If). Then, as twenty divisions cover one-hundredth of an inch, 2000 (20x100) will cover an inch, and each division will be equal to l-2000th of an inch. “ In doing this with each object-glass, the draw-tube of the microscope should be so adjusted as to give a number that can be reduced to a decimal fraction by multiplying or di¬ viding by a single figure ; but if it be preferred to express the dimension by a simple vulgar fraction, we have merely to divide the number of divisions in an inch by the observed number. Thus, if the length of an object be eight divisions of the above scale (8-2000ths), it will be l-250th of an inch, or decimally ‘004. “A memorandum should be made, in a tabular form, of the value of the eyepiece micrometer with each object-glass, together with the length of the tube drawn out, so that the instrument may be readjusted for measuring without repeating the above operation : thus — Object-glass. Value of each division of Eyepiece Micrometer with the following Object-glasses. Amount of tube drawn out, Fraction of Decimal of in tenths of an inch. an inch. an inch. 7 ToW -0005 “ When moving the lines to their coincidence, the action of the stage will be found rather too quick ; but the most correct adjustment can be made by the small screw (fig. 2, a) attached to the eyepiece micrometer.” LEESON’S GONIOMETEE. 65 Indicator. Quekett’s indicator (Plate XXII. figs. 9 & 10) is a fine pointer, fitted in the interior of the eyepiece, and capable of being turned in or out of the field of view by means of the small quadrant (fig. 9, a). It answers admirably for the very useful purpose of indicating some particular part of an ob¬ ject; and any of the eyepieces can be furnished with it. Double Nosepiece. Brooke’s double nosepiece facilitates the change from one object-glass to another, and avoids the loss of time incurred by screwing and unscrewing in the ordinary way. This piece of apparatus (Plate XXII. fig. 14) is attached to the microscope by the screw-piece (a); two object-glasses are screwed to the extremities (b, b), and, by merely rotating the arm (c, c) on the centre (d), either object-glass may be brought into the position for use : a pin (e) in each instance forms a stop to ensure correct centering. Quadruple Nosepiece. We have extended the same principle as that of the foregoing to a quadruple nosepiece (Plate XXII. fig. 13); this is applied to the microscope by a screw-piece, as in the double one ; but the object-glasses are changed in position by drawing the plate (fig. 13, «), to which they are screwed, a little forward, to release it from a pin, when it may be turned round, and a slight spring, confined in the top ( b ), will press the plate home again, when the next object-glass will be only central with the body of the microscope. Leeson's Goniometer. This instrument (Plate XXII. fig. 12) is admirably adapted for measuring the angles of microscopic crystals. It con- F 3 66 MALTWOOD’S FINDER. sists of a circular divided plate, above which a Biot’s double- refracting prism is mounted so as to admit of rotation by means of the arm (A), which also serves as an index-hand. The whole piece of apparatus fits on the eyepiece, to the flange of which it is secured by a pin, which drops into a corresponding hole. When a crystal, or any angle of a crystal, is viewed through the prism of the goniometer, there will appear two images, which may be made to occupy various relative posi¬ tions by revolving the prism, as shown in the annexed wood- cuts, figs. 1, 2, & 3. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Let x, y, z be the angle to be measured : hold the arm (Plate XXII. fig. 12, A) at zero, and revolve the prism by the milled ring (B, B) until the lines forming one side of the angle to be measured coincide in both images, as, for instance, the lines x, y , x ', y' (fig. 2), then move the arm over the graduated circle until the two lines forming the other side of the angle y, z , y', z' are made to coincide (fig. 3) ; the amount of rotation thus obtained is the measure of the angle, or its complement, according to the direction in which the arm is moved. In¬ stead of starting from zero, it is of course sufficient to take the difference of the readings in the two positions. Maltwood’s Finder. A “ finder,” as applied to the microscope, is the means of registering the position of any particular object in a slide, so that it may be referred to at a future time, and by any microscopist who possesses the finder. MALTWOOD’S FINDER. 67 The subject of the best form was very fully discussed in the pages of the £ Quarterly Journal of Microscopical Science amongst the various schemes we selected the fol¬ lowing, which was proposed by Mr. Maltwood, and it has now become a universal standard of reference. It consists of a glass slide, 3x1^ inches, with a scale ( a ) MALTWOOD-S PINDER b <= — m STOP True size. occupying one square inch, and consisting of 2500 squares, each of which is separately numbered with a longitude and latitude. The scale is in each instance at an exact distance from the bottom and left-hand end of the glass slide, which, when in use, should rest upon the ledge of the stage of the microscope, and be pushed against a stop at the end ; this stop, which is best as a simple pin, should be about one inch and a half from the centre of the stage, and at a point from the ledge indicated by an arrow upon the finder at b. The object-slide must be placed under the microscope with the same care as the finder ; and when the particular object is in the field of view, remove the object-slide, put the finder in its place, and read the numbers of the square that comes into view; this maybe recorded upon the object- slide ; and to refer to the same object at a future time, the process has only to be reversed, by first finding the particular square of the finder, and then by placing the object-slide in its place. 68 MICROSCOPE-LAMPS. There is an easy way of recording the numbers by which each square may be subdivided into 5 ; thus : — Supposing the following figure to represent one of the squares ; if the object should be out of the centre of the square, put two lines in addition to the figures, to indicate the particular corner in a b 24 12 c d which it occurs ; thus, if it is a , write (24 12’ if at 24] 12 , if at c , |^, or if at d , whilst if near the centre, the figures 12)’ 24 may be recorded without any lines. We have taken great care to preserve an exact uniformity in the size of the scale and in its position on the slide, so that the registrations may avail any micro scopist who pos¬ sesses one of these finders ; we should at the same time mention that the ledges on the stages of microscopes are generally made at an angle, and when this angle varies it may make a slight difference in the readings from the finder ; and, principally on this account, we have adhered to Mr. Malt- wood’s original size of fiftieths of an inch, rather than any smaller size, for the squares in the scale. Microscope-Lamps. One of the greatest advantages possessed by the micro¬ scope is its entire fitness for use at night ; but to experience the full enjoyment of it at this time, the illumination must be suitably arranged and sufficiently bright ; any of the four lamps shown in Plate XXIII. are suited for the purpose. Fig. 1 is known as the “ Cambridge reading-lamp,” and burns oil. Figs. 2 & 3 are for Belmontine, Leucoline, or some other of those kinds of oil, which are admirably adapted for MICKOSCOPE-TABLE. 69 the purpose, if they are only properly selected and prepared ; we are now in treaty for some specially made for use with the microscope, which we expect to be most brilliant, per¬ fectly safe, and free from any unpleasant smell. Fig. 4 is a gas-lamp with a flexible tube for a connexion. All these lamps are provided with the means of raising and lowering the light upon the stems (A), and also with movable shades (B) for protecting the eyes from any annoying glare. The intensity of the light may also be increased or diminished by appliances common to other lamps, and therefore not re¬ quiring explanation here. In any case when a wick is used, it should be carefully dried before being put into the lamp ; and if there be any hardening or incrustation at the top of the wick after it has been used, it should be cut or rubbed off previous to being lighted. But above all give the glass chimney a wipe each time before it is put on ; there is no need to clean it all the way up, but any smear or fog below the top of the flame forms a serious obstruction to good illu¬ mination. Microscope-Table. However absorbing and sometimes exclusive microscopical observations may be, there are many occasions upon which the cooperation of other observers is required, and not unfre- quently the microscope is enlisted in the sociable entertain¬ ments of an evening. Under either of these circumstances a frequent change of seat, or even, if the instrument be placed perpendicularly, the constant standing, detracts much from any pleasure, and makes a quiet study unnecessarily irksome and disturbing. The table (Plate XXIII. fig. 5) is contrived to obviate these annoyances; it will comfortably accommodate three 3 70 CASES FOR MICROSCOPES. people sitting, and by revolving the top, the microscope may be passed round without any one rising : this principle can be, and frequently is, extended to tables of much larger size, but the arrangement here shown is the one more gene¬ rally approved. Firmness of construction is most essential in these tables, and the revolving fitting especially has to be made with great care. The manufacture throughout is of the best de¬ scription, consequently their cost contrasts rather unfavour¬ ably with that of much of the furniture of the present day ; but tables of inferior construction have only proved most annoying, or entirely useless, when required for microscopical purposes. Another convenient and simple method of passing the microscope to any number of persons seated at an ordinary table without disturbing the adjustments of the instrument, is shown in Plate XXVII. fig. 2. It consists of a neatly framed wooden stand, covered with leather on the top, which is sufficiently large to receive the microscope and lamp ; and the under side is provided with four carefully made brass casters, so that the stand and all that is upon it may be pushed about smoothly in any direction that may be required. Cases for Microscopes. — First-class. The microscope-stands, the apparatus, and the object- glasses are almost invariably packed in some kind of case; it is a subject we have paid considerable attention to, because upon it the good preservation of a microscope, whether at home or when travelling, very much depends. Plate XXV. shows a best Spanish mahogany case, con¬ taining a large best binocular microscope complete ; the tri¬ pod of the stand is fitted on a board (A) at the bottom of CASES FOR MICROSCOPES. 71 the case, which confines the instrument to a certain posi¬ tion, and much facilitates the sliding of it in or out ; at the top, the eyepiece-caps slide in two grooves, and a remov¬ able block (D) in the left-hand one fills up a vacant space between the front of the eyepiece and the door. Two boxes (E & F), containing the apparatus, slide in at the sides of the instrument, and are secure in their places when the case is closed. The bull’s-eye condenser packs on some blocks (G & H) at the back, and the draw-tube slides into two holes on the left at I; with these two exceptions, the whole of the apparatus and object-glasses fit into the various holes or recesses cut in the boards placed in the insides of the two boxes as shown in Plate XXVI. ; various blocks, faced with velvet, are fastened to the lids of the boxes, so that when closed and secured by the hooks, the whole of the apparatus will remain undisturbed, even when turned upside- down or shaken. When there is a smaller quantity of appa¬ ratus than that shown in Plate XXV., only one box is used. We also make a cheaper form of outside case in Honduras mahogany. Our large best binocular microscope, complete in every respect, may be made exceedingly portable by using a fold¬ ing tripod stand and a movable stage; with these altera¬ tions the whole will pack in a case, the outside measure of which is only 19 inches long, 9J inches broad, and 5 inches deep. Second-class Cases. The second-class instruments are packed with the same care as those of the first class, but generally in flat cases, such as the one represented in Plate XXVII. The micro¬ scope is shown with but little apparatus ; there is, however, 72 BELL-GLASS COVERING. abundant room in the case for any additions ; we also specify in our catalogue for upright cases of this class. Another plan which may be adopted for keeping any microscope at home is a simple bell-glass placed over a base, to which the stand of the instrument is fitted ; but this method is almost invariably additional to the ordinary arrangement previously described. 73 THE THIRD-CLASS MICROSCOPES. These instruments are intended to meet a want that has been much felt by students and others, who have been desirous of possessing an instrument equal to their require¬ ments, whether in physiology, chemistry, or the minute forms of animal or vegetable life, but have not been able or not disposed to incur the cost of such as are larger or more elaborate. Of this class we give descriptions of two different forms of Stand, distinguished from each other by the titles of the Popular and the Educational Microscopes. THE POPULAR MICROSCOPE. This entirely new form of Stand has been contrived because the construction of the Educational Instrument, described 'at p. 89, was not suited to the addition of Wenham’s Bino¬ cular Body. Whilst, therefore, the optical arrangement of the Popular Microscope remains exactly the same as that of the Educational, the stand is greatly improved, without any additional cost. The object-glasses and eyepieces of the Popular Micro¬ scope are so similar in appearance to the best ones figured in Plate V., that any additional illustrations would only appear superfluous ; but the magnifying powers and other \ 74 THE POPULAR OBJECT-GLASSES. particulars more especially relating to the object-glasses of this microscope are given in the following list. The Popular Series of Achromatic Object-glasses. The object-glasses in the following list are intended for all kinds of general use in which any very large aperture is not necessary. There are many persons who would not, with ordinary objects, and using only the first and second eyepieces, see any difference between these powers and the very best, the corrections being perfect, and the workmanship really good so far as the aperture goes. With severe test-objects, and employing the third or higher eyepieces, the difference is very perceptible ; but many who work with the microscope never require this high-class performance ; and the price of these object-glasses is very considerably below that of the best. Focal length. Linear magnifying power, nearly, with eyepieces Degrees of angle of aperture. s O h-1 No. 2. Draw-tubes 2 inches closed 24 40 10 1-i inch ditto 29 48 15 1 inch ditto 55 90 22 -i inch ditto 120 200 40 P inch ditto 210 350 75 L inch ditto 420 700 85 All these object-glasses have the Universal Screw (see P- 6). With the ^-inch and higher powers the condition of the chromatic and spherical aberrations may be considerably altered by the use of different thicknesses of thin glass, or THE “ POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” 75 other media, in covering the object. As a provision to com¬ pensate for the errors arising from such causes, the front tube of each of these object-glasses is made to slide for a very short distance ; and when pulled out as far as it will go, the object-glass is adjusted for an uncovered object, and the tube must be pushed back more or less for an object that is covered, the extreme adjustment being for glass ’01 thick. Description of the Stand. The construction of the Popular Microscope (see figs. 11, 12, and 13) is as follows: — The body, A (in these illustrations shown as binocular), is carried by a strong arm, B ; and this is attached to a square bar, C, which may be moved up or down by a rackwork and pinion in the lower part of the stand, where the stage, D, and the mirror, E, are attached. The base, F, is triangular ; and it is connected with the parts of the instrument already described by a broad stay, G, which moves on centres at the top and bottom, so as to allow the end of the tube, H, to fit by its projecting pin into various holes along the medial line of the base. With this arrangement, if the body of the microscope be required in a more or less inclined position (see fig. 11), four holes are pro¬ vided near the extremity of the base for the pin of the tube to fit into. A hole near the stout pin, L, is used when a ver¬ tical position is wanted (see fig. 12) ; while to obtain the horizontal position, shown in fig. 13, the pin of the tube is placed in a hole in the stud, K, the inner surface of the stay, G, resting at the same time on the top of the stout pin, L. This form of construction is entirely new, and has the fol¬ lowing advantages : — it is strong, firm, and yet light ; the instrument cannot alter from any particular inclination it is 76 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” put into, which is not unfrequently the case when the ordinary joint works loose ; and in every position the heavier part of the stand is brought over the centre of the base to ensure an equality of balance. Directions for Use. To adjust the focus of the object-glass, turn the milled 77 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” head, O, for a quick movement, or the milled head, P, for a slow one. 5 size. The stage, D, is circular ; and upon it fits a plate, T ; this again carries the object-holder, U, which is provided with a ledge, V, and a light spring, W ; it is held on the plate T by a spring underneath, so that it can be moved about easily and smoothly by one or by both hands. The small spring, 78 THE “ POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” W, is fastened to the object-holder by a milled head, which will unscrew; so that the position of the spring may be altered to give more or less pressure upon the edge of the object, or it may be removed altogether, if necessary. When a stage with only a flat surface is required, the object-holder, U, may be removed by unscrewing, from the under side of the plate, T, two small milled heads which con¬ nect a circular spring with the object-holder; or, by re¬ moving the plain stage altogether, an extra simple flat plate may be substituted. Beneath the stage there is a cylindrical fitting for the reception of a diaphragm, or for any additional apparatus that may be required in that position. The mirror, E, besides swinging in a rotating semicircle, will slide up or down the tube, H, or it will turn on either side for oblique illumination. The light should in general be on the left of the observer ; the best is that from a white cloud on a bright day ; but a satisfactory effect can be obtained from a wax or Palmer’s candle, if protected by a glass, a Cambridge or Moderator oil-lamp, a small Paraffin or Belmontine lamp, or an Argand gas-burner, provided they are not more than 10 or 12 inches from the instrument. The management of the illumination demands particular attention; that of a transparent object is produced by re¬ flexion from the mirror below, which should most frequently have its centre coincident with the axis of the body, and should be at such a distance that the light reflected from it may nearly converge to a focus at the object: this distance will be about 2^ inches when daylight is used ; but the rays from a lamp or candle 10 or 12 inches from the mirror are so divergent, that the focus for them will be lengthened to THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” 79 about 3 inches ; and the mirror may have to be slid up or 3 size. Accurate adjustment of this focus is often required with the J-inch object-glass ; and some details of objects, such as delicate striae, are best seen with this glass when a strong light is thrown on them obliquely by turning the mirror on one side of the axis. With the 1-inch object-glass the light is generally in excess, and has to be lessened by fitting the Diaphragm (fig. 14) under the stage ; this admits only so much light as passes through one or other of the two apertures in a small revolving disk, by which con¬ trivance, together with sliding the diaphragm up more or less under the stage, every neces¬ sary variation can be made. The diaphragm is generally left in its place when the in- 3 size. 80 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” strument is packed away ; or, if there be a vacant space, it may be put in the Tray (fig. 20). To illuminate opaque objects the light is thrown upon them from above; a Small Condensing Lens (fig. 15) mounted upon a separate stand, and capable of being turned in any direction, answers well for this purpose : its focus, for a lamp or candle 4 inches from it, is about 3 inches; for daylight, 2 inches. A large object can be placed upon the stage at once ; but small ones are generally either laid on a piece of glass or held in the Forceps (fig.16): these are of a superior construction to those we supply with our Educational Microscope ; they fit upon the pin at the top of the small milled head, which fastens the spring on the stage, and by the ball-and-socket movement at a , and the sliding wire b, every requisite move¬ ment can be obtained. In illuminating objects from above, all light that could enter the object-glass from below should be excluded ; and the Diaphragm (fig. 14) will do this very effectually when placed under the stage, with the blank space of its revolving disk turned over the aperture. A Glass Plate with a ledge, and some pieces of Thin Glass (fig. 17) are applicable for many purposes, but are specially intended for objects in fluid. Thus, a drop is Fig. 17. placed upon the plate and covered by a piece of thin glass ; or, the object being put upon the plate, and the thin glass over it, the fluid is applied near one side, and runs under by capillary attraction. A pair of Brass Pliers (fig. 18) completes the necessary apparatus furnished with the microscope, and is kept, with the forceps and glass plate, in the space on the left-hand side of the Tray , fig. 19. Fig. 18. THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” 81 The Case is made of mahogany, French-polished, with brass hooks, a good lock, and a strong handle. To pack away the stand, it must first be put in the horizontal position (fig. 13) ; but no part has to be taken to pieces. At the right-hand end of the case, provision is made for all the apparatus. In the first place, & Removable Tray (fig. 19), lying at the bottom Fig. 19. .U'd size. of the case, is divided into two spaces : the one is for keeping the forceps, pliers, glass plate, See. ; and the other is racked for 18 objects. Above this fits another Tray (fig. 20), which is Fig. 20. contrived to receive not only the object-glasses and apparatus already alluded to, and here shown in their places, but also the whole of the apparatus hereafter described, a is the diaphragm; c, the 2nd eyepiece; and n and o, the object- glasses, for which some brass cells are fitted in the board ; G 82 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” and when the object-glasses are put away, the engraved brass caps should always be screwed on, to prevent any dust settling on the inner glasses, which cannot be easily wiped. The other spaces in the tray are arranged as follows : — in the holes, a , b, d , g , the achromatic condenser, the parabolic reflector, the dark-well holder, or the large polarizing prism will fit ; the small analyzing prism will pack in c ; the camera lucida in k; p and r are spaces for additional object-glasses; l and m will receive the 1-in. and ^-in. Lieberkuhns ; an extra eyepiece can be packed atjf; and h and i are finger- and thumb- holes for taking hold of the tray. The whole or any part of the extra apparatus for which spaces are left in the Tray, and which is described in pages 83 to 88, may be added to the instrument at any time, with¬ out its being sent back to the makers. Glass of any kind requires occasional cleaning ; a piece of soft wash-leather is the best for the purpose. The fronts of the Object-glasses may be carefully wiped ; but if anything more be required, it must be done by the makers. When cleaning the Eyepieces , which should be done fre¬ quently, the cells containing the glasses must be unscrewed and replaced one at a time, so that they may not be mixed. Any dirt upon the Eyepieces may be detected by turning them round whilst looking through the instrument ; but if the Object-glasses are not clean, or are injured, it will for the most part only be seen by the object appearing misty. Wenhams Binocular Body. Thus far in this description the Popular Microscope has been considered as having a single body only ; the addition, therefore, of the Binocular Body, as shown in the illustra¬ tions, requires a few explanations and directions for use, ADDITIONAL APPARATUS. 83 which will be found in pp. 48 to 55, where there is a full de¬ scription of the contrivance, in every way applicable to this instrument, excepting a slight difference in the fitting of the prism, which in the Popular Microscope can only be removed after a smaller milled head (fig. 12, S) has been unscrewed. Mechanical Stage. When the movement of the object requires greater nicety than a direct action from the hand can give, the plain stage may be taken off and replaced by a Stage with Mechanical Movements (fig. 21). By this arrangement the plate (a) with a fitting, sliding up or down, will receive the object, which can also be moved sideways, these two movements forming a quick ad¬ justment; the slower movements in rectangular directions being given by turning the milled heads h and c, which, for convenience in . _ . ^rcl size. use, are placed on the same spin¬ dle. For rotation of the object, the whole stage may be turned upon the bottom stage-plate, which is central with the body ; and consequently the part of the object that is under examination will always remain in the field of view during the rotation. Additional Apparatus. When the light from the concave mirror proves insufficient for any object requiring an intense transmitted light, the Achromatic Condenser (fig. 22) may be employed with ad¬ vantage : this slides, by its tube, into the fitting under the stage of the instrument, in which it has to be moved up or down until the focus of its lenses falls upon the object, the G 2 84 THE “ POPULAR MICEOSCOPE.” light having been previously reflected in the proper direction by the flat mirror. Eig. 22. Fig. 23. Fig. 24. grd size. Fig. 25. The Illumination of Opaque Objects , already described, must be more or less one-sided; and in most cases it is desirable that it should be so. An illumination on any or every side is, however, easily obtained, provided the object is not too large, by means of the Lieberkuhn (fig. 23). This is a silvered cup, which slides upon the front of the object- glass, and light thrown upwards by the mirror will be re¬ flected by it down upon the object; it will then be found that, by slightly varying the inclination of the mirror, every necessary alteration in the direction of the illumina¬ tion can be obtained. The LieberJcuhn here shown is in¬ tended for the 1-inch object- glass. It is in most cases neces¬ sary, when using the Lieber- kuhn,to slide a Dark Wellfig. 24) under the stage, to pre¬ vent any light entering the object-glass direct from the mirror. Dark-Field Illumination is, to appearance, a means of seeing a transparent object as an opaque one. The principle, however, is that all the light shall be thrown under the Section, true size. ADDITIONAL APPARATUS. 85 grd size. object, but so obliquely that it cannot enter the object-glass unless interrupted by the object : this is best accomplished by WenhawbS Parabolic Reflector (fig. 26). It may be easily understood by reference to fig. 25, which represents 26 it in section ABC, and shows that the rays of light, r r1 r", entering perpendicularly at its surface C, and then reflected by its parabolic surface A B to a focus at F, can form no part of the largest pencil of light admitted by the object-glasses and represented by GFH; but an object placed at F will interrupt the rays and be strongly illuminated. A stop at S prevents any light from passing through direct from the mirror. In this microscope, the Parabolic Reflector fits under the stage by the tube A (fig. 26), and the adjustment of its focus upon the object (which is when its apex almost touches it) is made by giving it a spiral motion when fitted in — that is, carefully pushing rt up or down at the same time that it is turned round by the milled edge, B B. As the rays of light must be parallel when they enter it, a Plat Mirror , which in this case should be added to the instrument, is generally used ; daylight will then require only direct reflexion, but the rays from an artificial source will have to be made parallel by putting the condenser (fig. 15) between the light and the mirror, about If inch from the former and 4^ inches from the latter. Nearly the whole surface of the mirror should be equally illuminated, which may be tested by tem¬ porarily placing upon it a card or piece of white paper. Parallel rays can also be obtained from the Concave Mirror , if the light is put about 2^ inches from it. Polarized Light , invaluable to some microscopists, and to others a beautiful appliance by which many objects other¬ wise almost invisible are shown in every imaginable colour, 86 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE. Fig. 27. A . 8 3rd size. can here only be treated of by describing the way in which it is applied to this microscope by the following apparatus : — A Nicol’s prism as a Polarizer (A, fig. 27) fits, and can be turned round, under the stage; another prism, B, slides in the place of the cap of either eyepiece, and also revolves ; or by un¬ screwing its outer tube, c, and its cap, cl, it screws, as e, in the place of the back-stop, f ’ of either object-glass, and then the object-glass together with the prism are attached to the nosejhece of the microscope by the adapter (PI), which has a revolving fitting at Jc. When the prism B is over the No. 2 eyepiece, the field of view is considerably cut off ; and although it is not so when the prism is screwed above the object-glass, yet the definition is then somewhat impaired: its position therefore must be regulated by the character of the object. When only alternate black and white images are given by the prisms alone, a plate of selenite, G, will produce coloured ones. To draw an object, the Camera Lucida (fig. 28) is used. It slides on in the place of the cap of either eyepiece, with its flat side uppermost, as shown. The body of the micro¬ scope must be in a horizontal position, and the whole instru¬ ment has to be raised until the edge of the prism is exactly 10 inches from a piece of paper placed upon the table. If the side of the case be used for this purpose, the proper distance is exceeded by f of an inch ; but the paper may easily be raised this amount by some pad. The light must be so regulated that no more than is really necessary is upon the object, whilst a full light should be thrown upon the paper. Only one eye is to be used ; and if one half of the ADDITIONAL APPARATUS. 87 pupil be directed over the edge of the prism, the object will appear upon the paper, and can be traced on it by a pencil, the point of which will also be seen. Should any blueness be visible in the field, the prism is pushed too far on, and should be drawn back till the colour disappears. Fig. 28. ^rd size. Substituting in the place of the object a piece of glass ruled into l-100ths and l-1000ths of an inch, termed a Micrometer (fig. 29), its divisions can be marked on the same or another piece of paper, and, by comparing them with the sketch, the object can be most accurately measured. These 88 THE “POPULAR MICROSCOPE.” divisions also, if compared with a rule divided into inches and tenths, will give the magnifying power : thus, supposing 1-1 00th of an inch when marked on the paper measured 1 inch and i-gths, the magnifying power would be 130. The Live-box (fig. 30) hardly needs description: the object is confined between the glass, a, of the lower part, B, and that of the cap, C ; the distance between them can be varied by sliding the latter more or less on. As the thin glass is only dropped into a slight recess in the top of the cap, and is held there by the heads of the two screws, it can be easily taken out for wiping, or be replaced by another when broken. The Glass Trough (fig. 31), for larger objects in water, must be used with its thinner plate of glass, b, in front. The modes of confining such objects, and keeping them near Fig. 29. Fig. 30. Fig. 31. B ?rd size. the front surface, must vary according to the occasion. For many it is a good plan to place a piece of glass, e, diagonally in the trough, its lower edge being kept in its place by a strip (d) at the bottom; then if the object introduced is heavier than water, it will sink till stopped by the sloping plate. Sometimes a very slight spring ( f ) may be applied behind this plate to advantage, with a wedge (g) in front to regulate the depth. Arrangements are made for all those parts which may require cleaning. Thus, the Parabolic Reflector unscrews from the tube; the Nicol’s Prisms will push out of their fittings ; and the Camera-lucida Prism can be taken out by turning aside the plate that covers it. THE EDUCATIONAL MICEOSCOPE. 89 THE EDUCATIONAL MICEOSCOPE. This is the first third-class instrument that we constructed ; and although we consider the stand to be superseded by the Popular Microscope, last described, there are many persons who, not requiring a binocular body, are of opinion that the Educational Microscope possesses many advantages in its form and arrangement ; we therefore give the following full description of the instrument. Fig. 32. { 6 iL-th size. When the microscope is taken out of the case, as shown in fig. 32, first turn up the mirror G to O, and draw out the body, A; the stand, turning on the centre P, can then be placed in a perpendicular, horizontal, or any intermediate position. Next restore the mirror to its former place, slide the body, A, into the upper end of the tube B, and the in¬ strument is ready for use. (See fig. 33.) To adjust the focus of the Object-glass : — A quick motion is obtained by sliding the body, A, in the tube B ; and a slow motion by turning the milled head, C. The Stage , D, has two springs, E, the pins of which may be inserted in any of the four holes, F, and by their pressure, which can be varied by pushing them more or less down, they will hold the ob- 90 THE EDUCATIONAL MICEOSCOPE. ject under them, or allow it to be moved about with the greatest nicety. The Mirror , G, besides swinging in the rotating semicircle, Fig1. 33. i|rd size. I, is on the tube H, which may be drawn down, or turned on either side. ✓ There are som,e cases in which a supplementary stage THE EDUCATIONAL MICROSCOPE. 91 (fig. 33 a) may be found useful, as it entirely prevents the springs of the stage, EE (fig, 33), interfering with an object or its covering when under the microscope ; such a stage can be used under all circumstances, except with the dark field and Lieberkuhn illuminations. When the instrument is put away, the object-glasses are kept in the boxes, K. The eyepiece No. 1 is left in the body, and No. 2 fits in the space at L. The two vacant spaces in the board at M and N are for an additional object- glass, and a Lieberkuhn to be used with the 1-inch, if these should be required. The diaphragm which fits under the stage is shown in fig. 34 ; this admits only so much light as will j-fr ^ pass through its aperture (A), but by sliding it up more or less in the fitting, every necessary varia¬ tion can be made, or the diaphragm may be used to exclude all light from below, in which case the small shutter, B, is turned over the aperture. The dia¬ phragm packs in the board at O (fig. 33). A small condensing lens, R, attached to one of the up¬ rights of the stand answers well for the illumination of opaque objects: its focus for a lamp or candle four inches from it is about three inches ; for daylight, If inch. Fig. 35 shows the forceps which are supplied with the Educational Microscope, and the different ways in which they will hold small opaque objects. The remaining apparatus, together with the object-glasses and eyepieces suitable for application to this stand, are the same as those already described under the Popular Micro¬ scope (pp. 83 to 88) ; but there is some difference in the way Fig. 35. 92 THE EDUCATIONAL MICROSCOPE in which the extra apparatus is packed, as shown by the accompanying figure, which represents a small mahogany board provided with the various packings, and fitting into a groove near the top of the case. Fig. 36. 93 FOURTH CLASS. THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. This instrument is the result of an endeavour to make a very low-priced Compound Achromatic Microscope by reducing its construction to the simplest possible form, still retaining all that a really useful instrument requires, together with such an arrangement as would admit of considerable additions being made without returning the stand to the makers. These features, together with other details, are fully explained in the following description : — The foundation of the stand is a large circular base (fig. 37, A), and near its circumference, on the left-hand side, is a strong pillar (B) ; at its top is the axis upon which the remainder of the instrument turns, and with so equal a balance as never to require more than a slight screwing down of the small milled head, C, to secure any particular position. On the same centre as the axis is a large milled head, D, by turning which a quick motion is given to the body, E ; and depending from the smaller part of the same milled head is a lever, F ; this of itself hangs free, but when held at the lower end, and pressed sideways, either nearer or further from the pillar, it obtains a gripe upon the milled head, which can then be turned so slowly as to constitute a very good slow motion. The quick-motion milled head and the slow-motion lever are always in the same position, and do not alter with any inclination of the body ; they are also so low down, that in using them the hands are very little raised from the table ; 94 THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE This illustration is drawn to a scale of half size. THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. Eig. 37. THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. 05 this latter advantage also applies to the stage (H), which is screwed on at the lower end of the limb (G) at less than four inches from the bottom of the stand. On the top of the stage is a double spring (I) branching right and left over a brass plate (K) ; on this there is a ledge (L) for the object to rest upon, and in continuation on the right-hand side the plate is bent over so that it may be firmly grasped by the fore and middle fingers underneath, and by the thumb above. With this arrangement the object can be moved freely in every direction, and will retain its position after the hand is withdrawn. If necessary, the short spring (M) may be used when the object has to be held firmly on the plate. The pin (N) is for holding the forceps. Beneath the stage is a cylindrical fitting (P) for all the apparatus required in that position. The diaphragm (fig. 38) is, however, made a fixture to the mirror-stem ; but it will turn away entirely on the left side, when necessary ; it is provided with one small aperture (X) for the lower powers, and this can be closed by a small shutter (Y). A concave mirror (fig. 37, S) swings in a i size- rotary semicircle (T) which is attached to an outside sliding tube, the inner tube being screwed beneath the stage ; on the opposite side a condenser (U) is fixed for the illumina¬ tion of opaque objects; it is provided with ball-and-socket joints, which afford any necessary movement, and also the means of turning it out of the way when not in use. Its focus for a lamp or candle five inches from it is about 2f- inches ; for daylight, If inch. There are five object-glasses with which the Universal Microscope may be furnished, viz. 2-inch, 1-inch, f-inch, 96 THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. J-inch, and -J-inch (fig. 39) ; they differ from the powers of all other instruments in having, a smaller-size screw for their attachment to the body, and the settings of their lenses made as short as possible, these variations having been made to suit them to the “ Combined ” and “ Binocular ” bodies, de¬ scribed further on. Fig. 39. 2-inch. 1-inch V-inch. £-inch. -l-inch. I size. The eyepieces (fig. 40) are of a construction introduced by Kellner, and they give a flat and, for their size, a large field of view. Their chief fault will, we believe, prove a general advantage : any dust or moisture upon the field-lens is so annoyingly apparent from its being in the focus of the eye- lens, that those who use this form will be compelled to wipe the lenses frequently ; and not only this, but they will soon learn the necessity for the constant examination and the occasional cleaning of every surface of glass that they have about their microscopes. Fig. 40. No. 1. No. 2. No. 3. \ size. The apertures of the object-glasses of the Universal Micro¬ scope and their linear magnifying powers when combined with the eyepieces are given in the following list, together with the increase that may be obtained by the addition of a lengthening tube to the body — an arrangement which, under many circumstances, is of great advantage. THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. 97 List of Achromatic Object-glasses for the Universal Microscope. Focal length. Linear magnifying powers, nearly, with eyepieces 2 inches, with ordinary body . No. 1. 20 No. 2. 30 No. 3. 65 with lengthening tube . 40 55 100 1 inch, with ordinary body . 55 • 75 155 with lengthening tube . 95 125 250 \ inch, with ordinary body . 115 150 325 with lengthening tube . 190 250 500 \ inch, with ordinary body . 175 225 480 with lengthening tube . 275 350 650 g inch, with ordinary body . 315 425 865 with lengthening tube . 470 630 1250 The higher powers, viz. the \ inch, \ inch, and ■§• inch, have no adjustments for variations in the thin glass or other media interposed between their front lenses and the object ; but they are corrected for a piece of glass *008 thick, and these object-glasses will define the best when the object is covered with glass of such, measurement. The forceps (fig. 41, O), a small pair of pliers (V), and a glass plate with a ledge (W) are also generally supplied with this microscope. The case is made of mahogany, and of an upright form ; the instrument, when put away, slides into it so that the pillar occupies the left-hand corner next the door; the stand is blocked to prevent any inj uryin carriage. One object-glass and one eyepiece are intended to remain on the microscope ; a small board on the door receives the re¬ maining apparatus, with room for any additional object- glasses or eyepieces that may be required. Provision is also Fig. 41. o II 98 THE UNIVERSAL MICROSCOPE. made in the case for a small box (fig. 42), to contain the extra apparatus alluded to hereafter. This microscope can be kept in perfect working order by a little attention to one or two parts. If the body work loose in its dovetail fitting, it can be corrected by unscrew¬ ing the screw (fig. 37, a) at the upper part of the limb half a turn, and by screwing up the one ( b ) at the lower part of the limb to the same extent ; or if this should not be suffi¬ cient, it may be repeated until the body will not rock in its fitting. This operation is really that of pushing up by the lower screw, a dovetailed wedge; but, to retain this in its proper place, it is always necessary that the upper screw should also be screwed down firmly upon it. The chain connected with the quick and slow movements may also work loose ; if so, it can be tightened by carefully turning round from left to right the smaller screw-head (/^coj>'p? rtn -Sr JC ,-«.'oO IMMK ' * Description of Plate XIV. This Plate is intended to show the effect produced by “ dark-field illumination ” on some of the Polycystina found in an extensive fossil deposit in the island of Barbadoes. Of the true character of these beautiful microscopic objects, which are closely allied to the Forami- nifera, there is but little known ; they were discovered by Professor Ehrenberg, and by him have been most carefully classified. There is every reason to suppose that most of the specimens in the mounted slides are more or less mutilated ; this, however, does not detract from their remarkable beauty as microscopic objects, nor from their value as illustrating the advantages of a peculiar illumination, for which purpose they are introduced here. The following are the names of Figs. 2, 3, and 4. Figs. I and 2 we are unable to identify with any illustrations that have been published. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Haliomma Humboldtii. Fig. 3. Astromma Aristotelis. Fig. 4. Lychnocanium lucerna. Fig. 5. PLATE XIV. > ‘Vi 0 v L;»l |* • A ri, s fell E*a«o?| $ ' €• fefr/.MMi V-v: ■'V * • 'v y «• .•VAfc; 'V?fi ??c&$phc.: « • • * * • • v A* ; V jfefii mam l. ■ £ » FIG. Z X 180 Description of Plate XY. These illustrations are to explain the use and capabilities of the Erecting- glass, which may be employed with great advantage when objects of a large size have to be examined under low powers of from 5 to 100 linear; and with it the image of the object is erect, not reversed, which considerably helps in any manipulation or dissection of the object. Fig. 1. The new halfpenny coin of the realm, magnified only 5 times linear, by employing the erecting-glass with the §rds. Figs. 2 & 3. The two sides of a halfpenny, the full size. These figures, when compared with fig. 1, convey a good idea of linear magnifying power. Fig. 4. The foot only of the figure of Britannia under a magnifying power increased to 25 diameters, obtained by pulling out the draw-tube of the body ; and by the same process the range of power may be extended to 100 diameters, but this object then becomes quite unsuitable as an illustra¬ tion. PLATE XV. FIG. 1. Description of Plate XVI. Fig. 1. The short tube, fitting by a bayonet-catch to the under plate of the stage. Fig. 2. The ordinary polarizer of NicoPs prism. Fig. 3. The extra-large polarizer of Nicol’s prism. Fig. 4. The analyzer of NicoPs prism. Fig. 5. Tourmaline mounted as an analyzer. Fig. 6. The selenite plate. Fig. 7. The ring to hold the selenite plate in its fitting, fig. 8. Fig. 8. The fitting for the selenite plate, fig. 6. Figs. 9, 10, 11. Darkens three retarding- films of selenite. Figs. 12, 13. Two of Darker’ s retarding-films when placed at right angles. Fig. 14. Darker’s selenite stage. Fig. 15. The analyzer of NicoPs prism when its cap and its fitting to the eyepiece are removed to suit it for either of the adapters, figs. 19 or 20. Fig. 16. Darker’s three retarding-films, fitted to rotating cells of three arms, which, when in use, fit on the cylindrical fitting under the stage, as shown in fig. 22. Fig. 17. Selenite mounted in plain brass plate. Fig. 18. Selenite mounted between two slips of glass. Fig. 19. An adapter which screws into a stop at the bottom of the draw-tube to receive the analyzer, fig. 15. Fig. 20. An adapter which screws on the nosepiece of the microscope to receive the analyzer, fig. 15. Fig. 21. A polarizer of polished black glass, fitting on the rim of the mirror. Fig. 22. The Achromatic Condenser combined with a polarizer, and Darker’s series of selenites, to increase the brilliancy of the colours under high powers. Fig. 23. A bundle of thin glass as a polarizer. Figs. 24, 25, 26. Two double-image prisms and plate of selenite, for experiments with double refraction. Fig. 27. A brass plate with three small holes for use with double¬ image prisms. Fig. 28. A section of a crystal as mounted to show rings. PLATE XVI. i. SCALE. S.Allei: I * :U Description op Plate XYII. OBJECTS SEEN UNDER POLARIZED LIGHT. Eig. 1. A crystal of the sulphate of copper and magnesia as it appears when the NicoPs prisms only are used. Eig. 2. The same object, showing the change produced by the addition of a selenite plate. Eig. 3. An oblique section of Rhinoceros-horn as seen under po¬ larized light produced by NicoPs prisms only. Fig. 4. A section of the tendon of the Ostrich under polarized light produced by NicoPs prisms only. Eigs. 5 & 6. Crystallized salicine (an alkaloid from the bark of the willow) under polarized light produced by NicoPs prisms only. The two drawings show the change produced by one quarter of a revolution of one of the prisms. PLATE XVII. FIG. 1 . FIG. FIG. I FIG. 6 . °Q°° R.Beck..d*lt A. T. Kef licit-, sc. Description of Plate XX. Fig. 1. The body and part of the limb of one of the ordinary micro¬ scope-stands, with an additional tube, forming WenhanFs Binocular Microscope. This addition does not interfere with the ordinary use of the single body, and any of the microscope-stands as yet figured will admit of the altera- tion. B. The additional body-tube. C. The original body-tube. D & E. Draw-tubes. I. The part of the nosepiece where the prism-box is inserted. K. The milled head, connected with a pinion and racks, by which the draw-tubes D and E may be adjusted for eyes of dif¬ ferent distances. Fig. 2. An adapter to receive the analyzer of the polarizing appa¬ ratus, so that polarized light may be employed with the binocular body. Fig. 3. The fitting for the small prism, which reflects one-half of the rays passing through the object-glass into the additional tube of the binocular body. F. A small catch for stopping the prism-box when it is drawn back so as to allow the whole of the rays from the object- glass to pass into the straight body. This catch must be pressed back when the prism-box has to be removed. PLATE XX ■ Description op Plate XXI. LIVE-BOXES, COMPRESSORS, &c. Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. Fig. 6. Fig. 7. Fig. 8. Fig. 9. Fig. 10. Fig. 11. Fig. 12. Fig. 13. Fig. 14. Fig. 15. Fig. 16. Fig. 17. Fig. 18. Fig. 19. Small live-box. Glass trough, front view. Glass trough, end view. Large live-box, with the cap lifted from lower part. Glass plate with ledge, and thin glass cover. Three glass tubes for catching animalcules. Wenham’s Compressor, front view. WenhanFs Compressor, side view. Screw live-box, front view. Screw live-box, side view. Parallel plate compressor when the plates are separated. Parallel plate compressor when the plates are close toge¬ ther. Lever compressor, front view. Lever compressor, side view. The arrangement of the two pieces of thin glass in the two compressors, figs. 11 & 17. Counter cell of the compressor, fig. 17. The reversible cell compressor. The cell of the compressor, fig. 17. The frog plate. PLATE XXI FIG-.l. FIG-. 4. FIG. 5. FIG. 9. FIG. 12. mi FIG. 6. Oj FIG. 7. FIG. 8. FIG. 16. FIG. 19. FIG. 18. S.AIl'ia. 2c, • ' *fT u H 5 > * > <• * Description of Plate XXII. MICROMETERS, CAMERA LUCIDA, &c. Fig. 1. No. 2 Eyepiece, with the micrometer in position. The cap of the eyepiece is here drawn apart, to show how the top lens may be adjusted at a. Fig. 2. The Eyepiece Micrometer, front view. Fig. 3. The Stage Micrometer, as mounted in brass. Fig. 4. The Stage Micrometer, mounted in card. Fig. 5. The lines of the eyepiece and stage micrometers, as they appear in the field of view. Fig. 6. The Camera Lucida, as seen from above. Fig. 7. The Camera Lucida, side view. Fig. 8. A drawing to scale, showing the way to draw an object in the microscope by means of the Camera Lucida. Fig. 9. The top view of an eyepiece, showing the small arc at a , by which QueketPs Indicator may he turned in or out of the field of view. Fig. 10. QueketPs Indicator, as it appears when in the field of view. Fig. 11. A sketch, made by the Camera Lucida, of the stellate tissue of a rush ; the right-hand portion is more or less touched up, but that on the left is exactly as traced by aid of the camera. Fig. 12. Leeson’s Goniometer. Fig. 13. A quadruple nosepiece, for the attachment of four object- glasses to the microscope at once. Fig. 14. A double nosepiece, for the attachment of two object-glasses to the microscope at once. PLATE XXII. i.SCALE. S. Alien. v3c. ■ * . } ■ 1 8 vll * Description of Plate XXIII. LAMPS AND REVOLVING TABLE EOR THE MICROSCOPE. Fig. 1. Cambridge reading-lamp for burning oil. Fig. 2. Best Belmontine lamp, with circular wick. Fig. 3. Cheaper Belmontine lamp, with flat wick. Fig. 4. Gas-lamp for use with flexible tube. Fig. 5. An engraving to show the use of the revolving microscope- table. Only two sitters are represented in the Plate; but three or four persons may sit round without incon¬ venience. PLATE XXIII FIG. 2. FIG. 1. FIG. 3 FIG. 4. FIG. 5 Description of Plate XXIY. OBJECTS AS SEEN UNDER THE J^th OBJECT-GLASS MAGNIFYING 900 LINEAR. Fig. 1. The thorax, legs, and parts of head, as seen on the under side, of Demo dex folliculorum, a parasite found in the follicles of the human skin, more especially about the nose. A & B. Moveable organs, which are probably palpi ; but the correct determination of the various parts of this parasite is very difficult, on account of its transparency, which confuses the upper and under portions, whilst the denser parts of its structure refract the light and falsify the appearances of many of the features. Figs. 2 & 3. Front and profile views of the stinging-hairs from the stem of the common nettle ( Urtica dioica) . Fig. 4. A stinging-hair similar to those in the preceding figures, but with the bulbous extremity broken off by being touched : in this way a very sharp point is provided, which is admirably adapted for puncturing; and an aperture being made at the same time, the fluid escapes from the interior of the hair and enters the wound. PLATE XXIV. Description or Plate XXV. THE BEST UPRIGHT CASE FOR THE LARGE BEST MICROSCOPE. This Plate shows the way in which the Large Best Binocular Micro¬ scope, together with the most complete apparatus, is packed in an upright case. The extremities of the tripod base are let into a board at the bottom, to facilitate the sliding of the instrument either in or out, and also to confine it to one fixed position ; the eyepiece ends are also secured by two grooves, the central one having a sliding dovetail block which fills up the intervening space between the eyepiece and the door. The Bull’s-eye Condenser is fastened by various packings on the back of the case, and the long draw-tube fits into two blocks on the left, the remaining apparatus being packed in two boxes which slide on either side of the Microscope-stand. (The interiors of these boxes are shown in the next Plate.) By this arrangement, when the door is closed, the whole instrument is securely packed for any kind of ordinary travelling. PLATE XXV tjv.Amcf. cle/ l rd scale. Description of Plate XXVI. THE TWO BOXES OF APPARATUS BELONGING TO A COMPLETE LARGE BEST MICROSCOPE. There is but little explanation required for this Plate, which shows the various ways in which the different object-glasses, eyepieces, and other apparatus are packed in the two boxes, which in the preceding Plate are shown as packed on either side of the Microscope-stand. Each separate piece of apparatus is held in these cases, when they are closed, by a block on the lid ; so that all are secure from any in¬ jury by displacement when the cases are turned over or are shaken. This Plate may also be of some service to a beginner, who may occa¬ sionally find some difficulty in replacing the apparatus; for, unless each piece is in its proper place, the cases cannot be closed without some strain or injury. PLATE XXVI gi'd scale. Description of Plate XXVII. The flat mahogany case in which the Second-class Microscopes and apparatus are usually packed. No part of the Stand has to he taken to pieces when placed in the case, which is sufficiently large to receive the instrument and the most complete set of apparatus. A neatly framed wooden Stand, covered with leather on the top, which is sufficiently large to allow a Microscope and Lamp to be placed upon it. The stand is provided beneath with carefully made casters ; so that it can be pushed about in any direction, upon an ordinary table, at which several persons may be seated ; in this way the microscope may be passed from one person to another, without any altera¬ tion in the adjustment of the instrument, or any inter¬ change of seats. PLATE XXVII. 5-th scale. PLATE XXVIII. S.AlUnsc- •* i t 9 *• CATALOGUES, ETC. PUBLISHED BY SMITH, BECK, AND BECK, 31, CORNHILL. Price 6d. each. Illustrated description of the Popular Microscope. Illustrated description of the Educational Microscope. Illustrated description of the Universal Microscope. Scientific Catalogue of Microscopic Preparations. Price 6d. each. Part 1. Vegetable. Part 2. Bones, Teeth, Cartilages, Hairs, and Feathers. Part 3. Entomological. Price 6d. General Catalogue of Achromatic Microscopes, etc. — Descrip¬ tion of Wenham’s Binocular Microscope. — Illustrated de¬ scription of the Patent Binocular Magnifiers. — Illustrated DESCRIPTION OF THE ACHROMATIC TABLE AND PATENT MlRROR Stereoscopes. Price 2s. 6d. ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS. Part II. Meteorological Instruments, Will be published early in April. Price 2s. 6d. ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS. Part I. Microscopes, and Apparatus, Instruments used in preparing Objects, Materials used in Mounting Objects, Cabinets, Lamps, Tables, etc. ✓ - t 0