doing this whenever circumstances permit, by cutting down the fire when descending hills, and by using steam with moderation at the foot of a long hill, it is wonderful what can be done. It is also necessary to remember that the best results will be obtained by keeping the boiler fairly full. If the water is allowed to get low, a large supply has to be given to it at one time, and this results in an instant drop of steam pressure. The great thing for the novice to guard against is 'burning the boiler' by allowing it to become nearly empty, so that it gets overheated. Care should also be taken that the engine and all working parts are properly oiled—never allowed to run dry or to be flooded with needless oil. The boiler should be 'blown down' twice a week when the car is in use. When the drive is finished the pressure should be allowed to fall to 50 pounds, and then the blow-off cock or tap opened so that all the water is blown out, and with it all sediment and deposit which would otherwise form a coating on the inner surface of the boiler and tubes. This is like the 'fur' in a kettle, and not only reduces the steaming power of the boiler, but also eats away the metal. So long as the boiler is regularly 'blown down' it will not get furred.
Quite apart from questions of economy, the owner who studies his car and endeavours to get the best results out of it will find that his interest in the pastime is greatly increased, as he is provided with an interesting occupation the whole time he is driving, and never for one minute does the way seem long or the driver feel bored. Finally, the driver should always make a point of seeing that everything is in good order, as it should be before he starts out, and he should not leave trifling but necessary adjustments, which might have been seen to before he started, to be performed on the roadside. If he follows this advice he will have a vehicle which is as trustworthy as a railway locomotive, and almost as durable.
