INVENTION AND DISCOVERY.

A new inkstand has lately been patented.

The great trouble we all have with our ink is that it thickens so quickly if we are not very careful to cover the inkstand after using.

The new ink-well, to save this trouble, is self-closing.

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One lid of the well is made in the shape of a half circle, and is fitted into a groove made to receive it.

When a person wishes to dip the pen in the ink, the touch of the pen slides the curved lid back; and then directly the pen is drawn out, the lid slides back into place again and the ink is protected.

New flower-pot.—­To people who really love flowers, the new flower-pot holder should prove a very great treasure.

It is to be made in china, and very prettily decorated, and its novelty consists in the plan of making it with an upper and lower chamber.

The upper part holds the flower-pot, and the lower collects the water that trickles through the pot, and keeps it away from the roots of the flower, thus preventing the plant from standing in water and rotting.

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The upper and lower portions are connected by a perforated grating, through which the water is carried off.

    G.H.R.

LETTERS FROM OUR YOUNG FRIENDS.

We have to acknowledge a great number of letters this week; so many, indeed, that want of space prevents publishing them all.

From the Dartmouth Street School, Worcester, we have three letters.

Etta H., Annie H., and Roy R. have sent us delightful little notes, telling us how much they enjoy the great round world.

We must congratulate all three of our young friends on their excellent writing.  They are among the best written letters we have received so far.  Etta’s is particularly clear and good.

Frederic D. writes a second letter, asking about Crusoe’s Island.

We have heard nothing new about Juan Fernandez.

We have, however, written to the Consul at Valparaiso and asked him if he can give us any information.

We cannot get an answer for several weeks, but when we do all our doubts about Crusoe’s Island will be set at rest.

We thank Swift T., of Yonkers, for his very kind and friendly letter.  It pleases us very much to know that our young friends like the paper and are anxious to receive it every week.

    Dear editor: