Note 778 — Chapter XIX
Reading edition
Cement.—The following formula was given me by an eminent collector and developer of fossils:—
Gum mastic, one ounce;
Rectified spirit of wine, sufficient to dissolve it.
Isinglass, one ounce, soaked in water until soft; then dissolve it in pure rum or brandy until it is in the state of stiff glue: add to this a quarter of an ounce of gum ammoniacum, well rubbed and mixed.
Put the two solutions together in an earthen vessel, over a gentle heat; when thoroughly melted and united, put the mixture into smooth, well-corked bottles.
Use.—Immerse the bottle in hot water until the cement is sufficiently liquid for use.