were finished, how could they be thrown across the Straits a hundred feet above the level of the water? The reader will open his eyes in astonishment when we inform him that the four principal tubes, each 472 feet in length, were floated into the centre of the Strait, and then pumped up to their present elevated position. Said we not that science had brought the powers of nature under man's control—that the genii of the lamp had become the willing slaves of the modern Aladdin?
Each tube was supported on pontoons—huge lifebuoys if you will—and dragged from its resting-place by chains connected with a monster windlass stationed on the opposite bank. This operation was performed at high-tide, and when the water sank, the delighted spectators beheld the tube resting in its proper position, between its two towers. We need scarcely say, that we refer to the direction of the tube, but not to its height, when we here speak of its proper position. The mass of iron had yet to be lifted high into the air.
Among the genii of the lamp there is one called Fluid Pressure, and to this power the task of raising the tubes was committed. The hydraulic-press gave direction to the mighty efforts of this genie. This engine consists essentially of a strong metallic cylinder, in which is inserted a solid piston or ram, and a pump, by means of which water can be forced into the main cylinder. Many of these machines were employed in raising the different lengths of
