VI. Observations on the temperature of the ocean and atmosphere, and on the density of sea-water, made during a voyage to Ceylon

Observations on the Temperature of theOcean and.4tmosphere.27 entirely unfit for use--that the one shall (or perhaps may) be infected with the dry-rot--the other free aCrom such disease." I have eonversed with men of great experienee and knowledge in timber, and the resillt has always gone to strengthen my opinion, that the oak timber has not degenerated; but that the dry-rot is given it by the improper mode of cutting it down and~ preparing it for use ; and I am firmly persuaded that, in a ship built of timber so prepared, this destructive dir, ease will never make its appearance." I eould expatiate on this subject, and adduce the opinions of others to qualify what I have stated ; but I think it will require little argument to show that a tree cut down in its natural state, and seasoned in the mode I have described, will be a more solid substance, finer-grained, and consequently less liable to be illfected with aP.v disease, than that of a tree cut down, immediately stripped" of its bark, and left exposed to the elements, from which, in faet, the disease is absolutely engendered." In maki~g these suggestions I have been actnated by the good of my country ; and if they should ultimately prove to be founded on a solid basis, and that benefit will result fi'om them, I feel great eonfidenee that they will, by the Honourable Board, be appretiated aeeordingly; and, '~ I am, Hon.Sirs, "Your obedient servant, " To ihe Hon. the Commissioners JorlN Sn~Lt.I~EEI~, of the Navy, &e.London, 1st Lieut.Roy.Marines.""P.S.A small reduction in the tax on leather would prevent an inconvenience to the public from any rise in hark, and the expenditure of the navy .wouldbe considerably reduced.~J.S." *~j~' ~ I have been just informed that orders are issued not to receive timber into the Dock-yard that has been barked ;~if so, and it be attended with success, these suggestions of Lieut.S's will reflect great eredit on him. VI. Observations on the Temperature of" t]ze Ocean and .,4tmosphere, and on the Density of Sea-water, raade during a Voyage to Ceylon. In a Letter to Sir HUI~PHRY DavY,