The proceſs of the Gilding look'd well o'er,
Yet scarce could tell a rich gilt, from semilore;[1]
Each Stamp, each Lathe, and Press[2] They careful scann'd,
Then went to see the Paper Trays Japann'd;
Examin'd nicely ev'ry curious part,
And much admir'd th' improvements of the Art.[3]
These seen, they next resolv'd with speed to go,
To visit Boulton's, at the great Soho,
The wonders of that magic place explore,
And with attention, view its beauties o'er.
They went—but here description fails, I ween,
To tell you half the curious works there seen.
Suffice it then, such scenes were there display'd,
The Gods, with rapture fraught, the whole survey'd;
Their Names they wrote, and saw, with great surprise,
Fac Similes[4] that moment, strike their eyes;
Whilst at the Mint, th' invention of the Mill,[5]
Seem'd as if Coin was form'd by magic skill.
- ↑ A species of Braſs, formed by means of exposing Copper to Zink, in a state of evaporation by heat, which bears an excellent polish, and when finish'd has a great resemblance to gold.
- ↑ For a sketch of a Stamp Piercing Preſs, Lathe, &c. see Magnificent Directory, plate R, with a list of several eminent Button-makers.
- ↑ H. Clay, Esq. obtained a Patent for his admired improvements in the art of Japanning on paper, &c. For a list of Manufacturers, see plate O.
- ↑ From Watt and Company's Patent Copying Machine.
- ↑ The Coining Mill has been much improved since it was first erected, in 1788; it is adapted to work eight machines, and each is capable of striking from seventy to eighty-four pieces per minute, the size of a guinea; which is equal to between 30,000 and 40,000 per hour and at the same blow, which strikes the face and reverse, the edge of the piece is also struck either plain or with an inscription. See elegant Coins now in circulation.
