CHAPTER V. GUTTA-PERCHA FOR BELTS, HARNESSES, &C. Belts of leather may be put together by this cement, which adds greatly to their wear and durability, not being in the least affected by dampness, neither by the oils which may come in contact with them from the machinery. In cutting up belt for harness leather, there is usually great waste and loss of stock, as portions of the sides are very thin, and unfit for use. But by this process every particle may be saved. Cut the stock the proper width, stretch it, then raise a strong thick fibre on all the thin parts and the laps. Apply the cement hot with a brush to all the thin portions and laps. Let it dry until the solvent has evaporated; then heat the parts sufficiently, and press together with a vice or clamps. On all the thin places apply a piece of the cemented leather until the belt is of an even thickness; press firmly together, then shave off the projections with a knife or cutting machine. Trim the edges: you will thus produce a firm, smooth belt, _without a stitch, rivet, or lacing_. All portions of a harness or saddle may be cemented in the same manner. This process is exceedingly simple, at the same time economical—a saving of time and money, and adds greatly to their durability. GUTTA-PERCHA IN ITS APPLICATION TO WOOD WORK, &C.,—IMPORTANT TO SHIP AND BOAT BUILDERS. It may be applied to vats, drains, cisterns, sinks, etc., to great advantage. All square joints should be first prepared by raising a fibre, as in veneering work. Apply the cement hot, as glue is spread. In a few hours the solvent will evaporate; then heat the parts sufficiently to melt the cement; press together firmly. The gutta-percha will be found to be an excellent cement for all leaky places in stone, brick or wood work. Mix it with sand, or any fibrous substance, apply hot, or melt it in with a hot iron. The _pure_ gutta-percha will cement broken stone, marble or brick, so firmly that it will remain for years. It is undoubtedly _the best cement ever yet discovered_. Ornamental work, centre-pieces, etc., may be thus cemented to their position. It is a well known fact, that sub-marine wires, enclosed in the gutta-percha tube, are _indestructible_, as all sea insects, worms, &c., never molest it. In caulking all ships, boats, &c., oakum, or _any_ fibrous substance, may be saturated with _pure_ gutta-percha, and then pressed hot into the joints with a hot iron. This process renders the joints _proof against all agencies_. The joint thus cemented is made _more firm and solid than the plank itself_. TESTIMONIALS CONCERNING THE PRACTICAL VALUE OF GUTTA-PERCHA, AND ITS APPLICATION TO BOOTS AND SHOES, IN LONDON. _Gutta-Percha Company of London, Oct. 1st, 1849._