up a hill, may be set in motion, somewhat similar to the action of a horse’s legs under similar circumstances.  In descending a hill, there is a break fixed on the hind wheel to increase the friction; but independent of this, the guide has the power of lessening the force of the steam to any extent, by means of the lever to his right hand, which operates upon, what is called the throttle valve, and by which he may stop the action of the steam altogether, and effect a counter vacuum in the cylinders.  By this means also he regulates the rate of progress on the road, going at a pace of two miles or ten miles per hour, or even quicker if necessary.  There is another lever also by which he can stop the vehicle instanter, and, in fact, in a moment reverse the motion of the wheels, so as to prevent accident, as is the practice with the paddles of steam-vessels.  The guide, who sits in front, keeps the vehicle in its proper course, by means of the pilot-wheels acting upon the pole, like the handle of a garden-chair.

The weight of the carriage and its apparatus is estimated at 1-1/2 tons, and its wear and tear of the road, as compared with a carriage drawn by four horses, is as one to six.  When the carriage is in progress the machinery is not heard, nor is there so much vibration as in an ordinary vehicle, from the superior solidity of the structure.  The engine has a twelve-horse power, but may be increased to sixteen; while the actual power in use, except in ascending a hill, is but eight-horse.

The success of the present improved invention is stated to be decided; but the public will shortly have an opportunity of judging for themselves, as several experimental journeys are projected.  If it should attain its anticipated perfection, the contrivance will indeed be a proud triumph of human ingenuity, which, aided by its economy, will doubtless recommend it to universal patronage.  Mr. Gurney has already secured a patent for his invention; and he has our best wishes for his permanent success.

* * * * *

HISTORICAL FACTS RELATIVE TO THE EARLY CONDITION OF THE ENGLISH.

(For the Mirror.)

London, in early times (King Ethelred’s reign) consisted only of scattered buildings from Ludgate to Westminster, and none where the heart of the city now is; it was afterwards extended more westward and continued increasing—–­eastward being neglected until a more later period.  Who can view its present well constructed houses, its numerous elegant squares and terraces, and its general superior appearance, without almost doubting that the inhabitants of Britain once dwelt in the most miserable habitations, regardless in every respect of comfort and cleanliness.  Indeed, at an early period we seem to have been in a very wretched condition.  Without carrying ourselves too far back, we will look at the state of the English