* * * * * MINERALS, ETC.--Specimens have been received from the following correspondents, and examined, with the results stated: Box marked C. H. (no letter.)--1. and 2. Garnetiferous quartz rock. 3 and 4. Micaceous quartz rock. 5. Granite. 6. Basalt with traces of chalcopyrite.--L. C. G.--They are fossil sharks' teeth, common in marl beds.--J. E. C.--1. Iron sulphide and lead sulphide. 2. Quartzite, with traces of galena and molybdic sulphide. 3 and 4. Dolomite. 5. Fossiliferous argillaceous limestone, containing traces of lead sulphide. 6. Lead sulphide in argillite.--C. T. M.--1. A silicious kaolin. 2. Similar to No. 1. Useful if mixed with finer clay for white ware. 3. Silicions carbonate of lime--some of this would probably make fair cement. 4. Brick--the clay from which this was made would probably be useful to potters. 5 and 6 are very silicious clays. * * * * * COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED. Liniment. By J. L. T. Seen and Tangible and the Unseen and Intangible. By J.L.T. On Cheap Railroads. By R. P. N. On a Meteor. By W. E. C. * * * * * [OFFICIAL.] INDEX OF INVENTIONS FOR WHICH Letters Patent of the United States were Granted in the Week Ending: November 16, 1880, AND EACH BEARING THAT DATE. [Those marked (r) are reissued patents.] * * * * * A printed copy of the specification and drawing of any patent in the annexed list, also of any patent issued since 1866, will be furnished from this office for one dollar. In ordering please state the number and date of the patent desired and remit to Munn & Co., 37 Park Row, New York city. We also furnish copies of patents granted prior to 1866; but at increased cost, as the specifications not being printed, must be copied by hand.