=Initial charge.=—The charge should be started at the normal rate as soon as the electrolyte is in the cells and continued at the same rate, provided the temperature of the electrolyte is well below 100° F., until there is no further rise or increase in either the voltage or specific gravity over a period of 10 hours, and gas is being given off freely from all the plates. Also, the color of the positive plates should be a dark brown or chocolate and that of the negatives a light neutral gray. The temperature of the electrolyte should be closely watched and, if it approaches 100° F., the charging rate must be reduced or the charge stopped entirely until the temperature stops rising. From 45 to 55 hours at the normal rate will be required to complete the charge; but if the rate is less, the time will be proportionately increased. The specific gravity will fall rapidly after the electrolyte is added to the cells, and may continue to fall for some time after charging begins. It will finally rise as the charge progresses, until it is again up to 1.210 or possibly slightly higher. The voltage for each cell at the end of charge will be between 2.5 and 2.7 volts, and for this reason a fixed or definite voltage should not be aimed for. It is of the utmost importance that this charge be complete in every respect. At the end of the first charge it is well to discharge the battery about one-half and then immediately recharge it. Repeat this treatment two or three times and the battery will be in proper working condition. After the completion of a charge (initial or with the battery in regular service) and the current off, the voltage will fall immediately to about 2.20 volts per cell, and then to 2 volts when the discharge is started. If the discharge is not begun at once, then the pressure will fall quite rapidly to about 2.05 volts per cell, and there remain while the battery is on open circuit. =Battery in regular service.=—A battery must not be repeatedly overcharged, undercharged, overdischarged or allowed to stand completely discharged. After the initial charge is completed, the battery is ready to be put into regular service. A cell should be selected as a “pilot cell”; that is, one that is in good condition and representative of the general condition of the battery. The height of the electrolyte in this cell must be kept constant by adding a small quantity of water each day. This cell is to be used particularly in following the charge and indicating when it should be stopped. When the battery is in regular service, the discharge should not be carried below 1.75 volts per cell at full load. Standing completely discharged will cause permanent injury; therefore the battery should be immediately recharged after a heavy discharge.