Description of a Glass Apparatus for making Mineral Waters, like those of Pyrmont, Spa, Seltzer, &c. in a few Minutes, and with a very little Expence: together with the Description of some new Eudiometers, or Instruments for ascertaining the Wholesomeness of Respirable Air ; and the Method of using these Instruments: In a Letter to the Rev. Dr. Priestley...by J.H. de Magellan..

Engraved frontis. viii, 47 pp. 8vo, later wrappers (title a little browned), uncut. London: Printed for W. Parker..., 1777.

First edition of "an important milestone in the early literature of gas analysis...Magellan (1722-90), was an Augustinian prior who emigrated to England and Protestantism in 1764. Elected F.R.S. (1774), he published this account of his researches on gases, addressed to Joseph Priestley. The glass apparatus for impregnating water with fixed air (carbon dioxide) is described in detail. Newly improved by 'Mr. Parker,' the apparatus was superior to that used by Priestley and described by him in 1772. Carbon dioxide was prepared by dissolving marble (calcium carbonate) in dilute sulphuric acid. Magellan also describes three new types of eudiometer he had designed; these, and the apparatus for making carbonated waters, are illustrated in the frontispiece."-Neville, II, p. 125.

Very nice copy, inscribed by Magellan at the head of the title-page: "Comte de Castelbourgh par L'Auteur." The attractive frontispiece depicts 24 figures of apparatus.

❧ D.S.B., IX, pp. 5-6. (Inventory #: 6126)