immediately below, in fig. 80, is given the first step toward forming it.

Fig. 80.

The operator takes eight strands, as shown. These are tied in the centre, and numbered, for the convenience of the reader, from 1 to 8.

In fig. 81 we have the two strands, 3 and 4. crossed under 5 and 6, and the thumb and forefinger of the left hand represented as closing upon these strands to retain them in place. In fig. 82 we have the real commencement of plaiting the gasket, and here is the point where the principle is first employed. This principle is that the strand, whatever one it may be the operator has

hold of, must pass under all the strands, and over two strands. This is the key to the whole matter. It must also be borne in mind that the top strand

5

Fig. 81.

of all on each side, is the one to be taken hold of alternately. In fig. 82 the finger and thumb of the right hand are shown grasping the strand No. 8; the left hand being supposed to hold the crossed strands. Now look at the hand that grasps strand No. 8, it is inserted between strands 2 and 5, and is behind all the strands except 1 and 2, therefore when strand No. 8 is brought under all the strands except 1 and 2, and over strands 5 and 6, it will appear as in fig. 83, where strand No. 8 is shown drawn around, but not up to its

place; the fingers of the right hand grasp it, and the left hand keeps the crossed ones, 3, 4, 5, 6, together.

In the next figure, which is 84, the strand No. 8 is shown loosely drawn up to its place; the operator's hand going under all the strands for No. 1. This strand is to be brought under and behind all the other strands, and in between strands 3 and 4 where the hand enters, and thence over 3 and 8 as shown in fig. 85. Thus the principle of this gasket is illustrated, for it is only necessary to go between each alternate set of strands on either side-to take the topmost strand alternately, and

to lay it over two strands, to make a hard, firm, and even piece of packing.

Fig. 83.

Some engineers prefer to use a central core of india-rubber, plaiting the strands over and about it, so that the rubber exerts its elastic force, but is not injured by the heat and grease of the machinery. This can be done very easily with the eight-strand gasket by merely allowing the rubber to occupy a central position between the strands, four on one side and four upon the other; the rubber must be cut square and to the proper size, and when it is overlaid with the strands it should be larger than the recess in the stuffing-box, so that