INK

The composition of the ink used by the ancients is not well understood, but their products excelled ours in blackne and durability. The nece ary components of ordinary black Writing Ink are gall, sulphate of iron, known generally as green vitriol ox green copperas, and gum. The gum is added to retain the coloring matter and to give the mixture the nece ary consistence. Copying Ink is more concentrated and contains more sugar, which keeps it moist longer. The Marking Ink used in marking boxes for shipment, etc., is a thin paint, made of lamp-black and spirits of turpentine. INSECTS: of various kinds trouble the grocer, and great care should be taken to keep stores free from them, as they destroy stock and drive away customers. Various remedies are given under the headings of ANTS and COCKROACHES (which see), but without scrupulous cleanline no permanent relief can be expected. [s. 321]