position of the rider being arranged so that just sufficient load is allowed to fall on the back wheel as to obtain certainty in steerage. The weight of this machine is much less than when gearing is used, and the friction is also considerably reduced, trials with the dynamometer having shown that on a level, smooth road, a pull of 1 lb. readily moved it, while with a rider in the seat 4 lb. was sufficient. On this tricycle any ordinary hill can, it is stated, be ascended with great ease, and as a proof of its power it was exhibited at the Stanley show climbing over a piece of wood 8 in. high, without any momentum whatever. We understand that at the works at Coventry a flight of stairs has been erected, and that no difficulty is experienced in ascending them on one of these machines.--_The Engineer_. * * * * * SUBMARINE EXPLORATIONS. VOYAGE OF THE TALISMAN. It was but a few years ago that the idea was prevalent that the seas at great depths were immense solitudes where life exhibited itself under no form, and where an eternal night reigned. To-day, thanks to expeditions undertaken for the purpose of exploring the abysses of the ocean, we know that life manifests itself abundantly over the bottom, and that at a depth of five and six thousand meters light is distributed by innumerable phosphorescent animals. Different nations have endeavored to rival each other in the effort to effect these important discoveries, and several scientific missions have been sent to different points of the globe by the English and American governments. The French likewise have entered with enthusiasm upon this new line of research, and for four consecutive years, thanks to the devoted aid of the ministry of the marine, savants have been enabled to take passage in government vessels that were especially arranged for making submarine explorations. [Illustration: THE FRENCH SCIENTIFIC STEAMER TALISMAN.]