A new instrument to measure the degrees of moisture in the atmosphere,
of which the following is a description, was invented by M. Baptist
Lendi, of St. Gall:
In a white flint bottle is suspended a piece of metal, about the size of
a hazle nut, which not only looks extremely beautiful, and contributes
to the ornament of a room, but likewise predicts every possible change
of weather twelve or fourteen hours before it occurs. As soon as the
metal is suspended in the bottle with water, it begins to increase in
bulk, and in ten or twelve days forms an admirable pyramid, which
resembles polished brass; and it undergoes several changes, till it has
attained its full dimensions. In rainy weather, this pyramid is
constantly covered with pearly drops of water; in case of thunder or
hail, it will change to the finest red, and throw out rays; in case of
wind or fog, it will appear dull and spotted; and previously to snow, it
will look quite muddy. If placed in a moderate temperature, it will
require no other trouble than to pour out a common tumbler full of
water, and to put in the same quantity of fresh. For the first few days
it must not be shaken.
* * * * *
~Omniana.~