much bent that it was a wonder the whole affair did not tumble down the cliff. On another occasion a sad accident happened to one of the men engaged in this kind of work. He had assisted in bringing the goods across the Channel, and was not, moreover, in a condition for hard work, in fact, he was very unwell. The rungs of the particular ladder used had been placed farther apart than usual - ten inches was the usual space - on this occasion it was thirteen or four teen inches. When nearing the top, what with cold and exposure, the man felt himself unable to hold on ; he consequently let go and fell some twelve or fifteen feet, on to a ledge of rock, where he lay till daylight, when he was found by the Coast-guard and taken prisoner. He was detained a prisoner in bed, with a Coast-guard's man keeping watch over him. He at length threw himself on the Queen's mercy, and was set free. It may be mentioned to this man's honour that he never would divulge the names of his employers. He is still (October, 1872 ) living in Hastings, (as indeed are several others who were concerned in this ladder business), but is a cripple, and will remain. so till the end of his days. I electrified him some years ago, but with no result. This affair took place in January, 1851 , and was the last of the kind. I may add that this man has made me a rope ladder about twelve or fifteen feet long.
One danger attending the use of these ladders was, -
