ing care to state the kind
of shell and species of fuze used; the mode of loading; whether the
shell was lined or coated on the interior; kind, charge, and name of
maker of the powder which was used in the gun and shell.

There is reason to believe that few failures of the Parrott rifles
have occurred where the guns have not been previously, or at the time,
injuriously strained by the explosion of shells within the bore.

67 Whenever a gun shall give away under fire, or an accident of any
kind happen to one, the Bureau desires to be immediately informed of
all the facts in relation thereto.

Particular attention should be paid to the following points:

1. The manner in which the gun was loaded, stating the charge and kind
of powder used, and character and weight of projectiles.

2. The condition and appearance of the gun after it gave way, and what
effect was produced on the carriage by the explosion.

3. What injuries, if any, occurred to the crew of the gun or vessel.

Sketches of the gun and fragments which remain should also be sent to
the Ordnance Yard at Washington for trial of density and tensile
strength, accompanied by the written statement in detail of the
officers in immediate charge of the gun, and if practicable a
photograph should be taken.

INSPECTION OF SHOT AND SHELLS.

RULES AND MEMORANDA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF INSPECTORS.

68. All shot and shells for the naval service must be--

1st. Made from gray or mottled charcoal pig-iron.

2d. This iron most not be blasted with anthracite coal.

3d. It must be poured into sand moulds.

69. After being cast in this manner, the shot and shells must be--

1st. Spherical.

2d. Smooth on the surface.

3d. Free from the defects named in the following rules for the use of
the inspecting instruments:

FOR SHOT.

70. INSPECTING INSTRUMENTS.--One large, small, and one medium ring
gauge, and one cylinder-gauge for each calibre. The cylinder-gauge
shall have the same diameter as the large gauge, made of cast iron,
and three calibres in length. One hammer weighing two pounds, and
having a flat face and a conical point; one searcher, of steel wire,
with a handle; one pair of calipers and standard scale; one cold
chisel; steel punches.

71. After having been well cleaned, each shot is placed upon a table,
and examined to see that its surface is smooth, and that the metal is
sound and free from seams, flaws, and blisters. If clusters of
cavities o