then reduces the mass by farther evaporation in a water bath, stirring it constantly with a wooden spatula till it has acquired the consistence of butter; the preparation is then compleat, and is packed in barrels for sale. PAPERS PAPERS ย IN POLITE ARTS. 4. The SILVER MEDAL was this Session voted to Mrs. M. A. WARREN, of Glasgow, for a Piano Monitor. The following Communications were received from her on the subject. SIR, HAVING AVING for many years practised music as a teacher, my inclination and duty have led me to try every improvement that presented itself within the scope of my imagination, not only to inform my pupils of the principles which lead to the science of music, but also to form their habits so as to direct their practice to the attainment of its object: I need not, nor can I, perhaps, describe the methods pursued by different teachers with various success, whilst some have proved very prejudicial, and laid the foundation of errors fatal both to principle and execution To correct these errors (which generally arise from improper methods, or negligence when commencing with young beginners) has engaged a portion of my attention. One of the greatest faults in execution I have had to combat was weakness in one or both wrists, occasioned often by inattention in the teacher; sometimes from stubbornness or indolence in the pupil, no matter from whom or whence the fault is derived, all the first teachers agree in considering it as fatal to the attaining any degree of perfection on the piano forte. To provide against the failing I have alluded to, and to assist both the teacher in conveying, and pupil in gaining the necessary and elegant command of the instrument, I have attempted to construct an assistant for the wrist, which I have named the Piano Monitor. With the greatest diffidence I present it to the Society of Arts for their inspection. The conviction I have of its utility, from the success with which I have applied it, gives me reason to hope it will in some degree be found worthy their attention. I must apologize for the want of mechanical knowledge it doubtless will exhibit, by urging that studies of this kind seldom form any part of female education. I have endeavoured to render it simple, so that a child can regulate it, which I conceive a very essential point to gain. Its construction, no doubt, can be much improved by those better versed in mechanics; yet, feeling assured of its usefulness, I hope my humble exertions will be of service to those who teach, or learn music, on the piano forte. Any further communications which may be thought necessary, will be readily attended to by, |