17 AUGUST 1867, Page 3

There is a life raft now exhibiting at the Crystal

Palace which appears for its purpose to be nearly perfect. It is the invention of an American, and consists of three cylinders of gutta percha 24 feet in length and 2 feet in diameter, inflated with air and lashed to light planks, above which rise two light masts and sails. An iron locker can be placed on deck for stores, and then with a board amidships to act as a sliding keel, and a rudder, the craft is fit for duty. Three Americans started in her from New York, and in spite of tremendous seas she reached Cowes in forty-three days in perfect safety. If all is true that is said of the vessel, the problem of the best lifeboat to carry in seagoing ships would appear to be com- pletely solved.