A very good form is shown at Fig. 1, which represents a hand magnifier, fitted with three lenses of different focus, generally 2 in., 1½ in., and 1 in. Examination of the catalogues of the principal London opticians shows that such a set of lenses may be bought for about 3_s._ In shape and construction there is sometimes a little variation; but the form figured is that most generally adopted, and is, on the whole, fairly convenient. It would, however, be an advantage if the hole by which the magnifier is mounted on the stand were drilled in the solid part of the handle. This would not only do away with the objection that the hole in the case permits dust to penetrate to the glasses, when carried in the pocket, but would give a longer reach, and thus obviate the necessity for moving the stand if the observer were examining a large object. The price of the stand figured is 2_s._ 6_d._; and one with a short adjusting arm ought not to cost much more. Any one with a mechanical turn may make a stand for himself, though it may be doubted whether this is quite worth while when these articles may be bought so cheaply. Nevertheless, there is great pleasure in making things for oneself; and a home-made stand will enable the observer to do quite as good work as one that came from the optician’s shop. A bill-file weighted at the foot may be bought for a few pence, and adapted to the purpose. For the slider a large cork cleanly pierced will answer admirably. This should carry a piece of stout wire, bent at the end thus __|[image], to serve as a holder for the magnifier, which should have a hole in the handle, for the reasons stated above. The only difficulty will be the attachment of the wire to the cork. The Rev. J. G. Wood advocated winding the wire round the cork in a spiral; and this is a very good plan. An increase of steadiness is secured, if a larger cork, or small bung, be used, and the wire inserted in the side.