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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 76

Improved Preparation of Hemp

Improved Preparation of Hemp.

Feeling assured that an improved system of preparation would not only reduce the cost, but would materially add to the value of the fibre, I took special pains to make widely known the conditions of the bonuses of £1,750 and £250 respectively. For this extended circulation, and man; other advantages, I am indebted to the leading newspapers published in all the cities visited by me. I attach hereto a copy of the Gazette notice, No. 478, and I respectfully suggest that the time should be further extended, to enable many chemists, machinists, engineers, and inventors to prosecute their experiments, thereby insuring for the colony the investigations of a wider range of skilled persons. I am encouraged to make this recommendation from the fact that the greatest enthusiasm prevailed among those who sought information from me.

Dr. Gomess, of the Rhea Fibre Treatment Company (Limited), of London, upon examination of the samples I exhibited, pronounced the fibre to be useful for many purposes beyond that of rope, cordage, or binder-twine. His first experiments with the plant were conducted under many disadvantages, but he promised to make a complete test, in the belief that there was a great future for the hemp. His special interest in the Rhea Fibre Company (Limited) occupied all his time, and, although I made repeated efforts to induce him to proceed with his experiments, I could not prevail. Just at the time when he decided to proceed with the work he was, unfortunately, laid up with a severe illness. He has, however, promised to make a complete test.

Several gentlemen throughout England, as well as many in America and Canada, promised to give the subject every attention. Experiments are now being conducted by very competent men, in the hope that they will be able to discover a new process for the better treatment of the raw material.