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 Copy 1 
 
 REPORT 
 
 Record Inks md Paper. 
 
 FROM THE THIRD REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER ON PUBLIC RECORDS OF 
 PARISHES, TOWNS, AND COUNTIES, 1891. 
 
\ 
 
 61337 
 

 A ."^^ NOTE. 
 
 The wish has often been expressed that this report had given the name 
 of the best ink for records, rather than the names of those inks which 
 should not be used. For several reasons that could not be done. There 
 are a number of permanent inks on the mai'ket, and nothing but the test 
 of years would determine the superiority of any one. To have singled out 
 one of these as the only ink to be used would have been unjust to other 
 manufacturers. Moreover, prejudices in regard to inks are very strong, 
 and if an ink that a recording officer had condemned had been published 
 ■ as the best record ink the whole report would have lost weight and influence 
 in his mind. Again, there is a decided preference in regard to the color of 
 an ink when used, some wishing a bluish, others a greenish, and others a 
 jet black color; and among the permanent inks there is a chance for 
 choice without danger to the records, although, undoubtedly, the less 
 added color the better. 
 ^ The object of the report was : — 
 
 J First, to prove that fugitive inks were more common than permanent, 
 
 and thus to call the attention of the recording officers to the danger to 
 which their records were exposed ; to lead them to select ink with care, 
 and to care for it when selected, — never mixing it with others, watering 
 it, or allowing it to freeze. 
 
 Second, to advocate the English system of the establishment by the 
 State of a standard of ink for the public records, which standard should 
 be presented to the ink manufacturers for proposals to supply the necessary 
 quantity, the ink to be subject to chemical analysis from time to time by 
 official examining chemists. 
 
 Boston, May 6, 1893. Commissioner. 
 
 //'Zgl^t 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. Ill 
 
 Record Inks. 
 
 Upon commencing an examination of the records in vari- 
 ous places, I was impressed with the great importance of the 
 use of inks which should be permanent, and the necessity of 
 an investigation which might prevent the further use of inks 
 that for one reason or another were unfit for use upon records. 
 I found that, as a rule, the inks upon the most ancient records 
 had preserved their color, many undoubtedly being blacker 
 than when used, but that the later records lost the jet-black 
 appearance of the older. This, it is true, is not wholly due 
 to the change of inks, for the use of quills, the soft surface of 
 the old paper, the absence of blotting-paper and the greater 
 time spent in writing, were all conducive to a heavier deposit 
 of ink ; but evidence is ample that in comparatively recent 
 years inks of poor quality came in use. Proof of this is 
 given by an examination of the records in the State House. 
 Up to about 1850 it was the custom in the office of the Sec- 
 retary of the Commonwealth to use for engrossing the Acts 
 inks made of a powder which was mixed in the office ; and 
 until that time the Acts which are engrossed upon parchment 
 show, with Imt few exceptions, no signs of fading. From 1850 
 for several years the writing in many cases is becoming indis- 
 tinct, that upon an Act in 1851, and upon two in 1855, hav- 
 ing nearly disappeared. Since 18G0, Acts showing different 
 intensity of color are found, but whether this is their origi- 
 nal color or not cannot be determined. 
 
 That the fading can be attributed to the parchment, as 
 some claim, is disproved by the fact that of the signatures 
 upon the same Act a few have faded while others have not. 
 Upon an Act approved January 4, 1845, the signature of the 
 President of the Senate has nearly disappeared, that of the 
 Speaker of the House is more legible, while that of the 
 Governor, and the figure 4, which he evidently inserted, are 
 jet black. 
 
 The indexes in the volumes of archives in the office of the 
 secretary, which were written about 1840, were evidently 
 made with a different ink from that used for eno-rossins', and 
 faded so badly that the important words had to be rewritten. 
 
 In the office of tlie State treasurer the records to about 
 
112 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 1867 are very black and distinct, but the ink used during a 
 few years following has faded. 
 
 The records of births, marriages, and deaths, in the reg- 
 istration volumes in the secretary's office, furnish an excel- 
 lent illustration of the dijfferent qualities of the inks now 
 used. These records are original returns made by the city 
 and town clerks, and from 1842 to 1889 show instances of 
 the use of inks which are now almost illegible. Here again 
 I he fault cannot be attributed to the paper, for endorse- 
 ments made in the secretary's office upon the most faded 
 returns at the time of their receipt are as black as when 
 made. 
 
 The volumes of copies of the old records of Lexington, 
 made in 1853, have faded until they are quite indistinct. 
 
 Some of the old inks, though retaining their black color, 
 have, from the presence of acid in the ink or paper, eaten 
 through the paper as thoroughly as if the writing had been 
 done with a sharp instrument. In part of one old volume 
 of court records, the ink, while not injuring the paper or 
 becoming illegible upon the face of the leaves, has gradu- 
 ally become legible upon the reverse, while the heavy paper 
 has been impervious to the other inks used. 
 
 Knowinoj that some of the recording officers were much 
 troubled to obtain inks which possessed all the qualities 
 desired, and if using an ink which it was agreeable to use, 
 had no evidence of its most important qualification, — per- 
 manency, — I asked from the registers of deeds, registers 
 of probate, and city clerks, the name of the ink in use in 
 their respective offices, and the qualities which recommended 
 it. Replies were received from all, numbering seventy-five. 
 I found that twenty-six inks and five writing fluids were in 
 use upon the records in these offices. In these twenty-six 
 were included inks of difi'erent kinds made by the same 
 manufacturer. Some of the recording officers have taken 
 great pains to procure absolutely permanent inks, and, while 
 believing that they have procured such, have expressed grati- 
 fication that the subject was to be systematically investi- 
 gated, hoping for some positive information. 
 
 To show the difference in the conclusions at which they 
 have arrived, notwithstanding their endeavors, I present a 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 113 
 
 summary of the replies, and in consideriqg tliis summary a 
 distinction between inks and fluids must be borne in mind. 
 
 Two make tlie general statement that they consider all 
 fluids unsafe, while several who used inks of a certain make 
 upon their records used fluids for other purposes, thereby 
 implying their distrust of the permanency of the fluids. 
 
 The most popular ink had eleven advocates, its recommen- 
 dation being its black color and supposed permanency. One 
 of its advocates said " it thickens quickly, and for that reason 
 is not as pleasant to use as some others, but I have not dailsd 
 to change, for reason of its durability." Per contra, two were 
 not satisfied with it, and were about to change ; and one who 
 had used it for many years had discarded it because ' ' after a 
 while it became bad." 
 
 The next in popularity was a fluid wliich had nine advo- 
 cates. One had used it twenty years, another over thirty, 
 another thirty-five, and " should not care to change ; " while 
 one said it had been used in his office " time out of mind." 
 
 The ink of the same maker had four advocates, two of 
 whom were particular to emphasize the fact that they would 
 not use the fluid. Per contra, one who had used this ink 
 for twenty-five years said it was " not as good as formerly, 
 and had been discarded ; " and another said that " the rec- 
 ords made in 1884 already (in 1890) showed age." 
 
 Another fluid was the third in the matter of choice, having 
 eight advocates. This fluid had been in use seventeen years 
 in one office and twenty years in another. Two used the ink 
 of this manufacturer, but not the fluid. 
 
 Of the inks of another manufacture, six used one kind, 
 one another, and one another. One of these used the fluid 
 for general uses in the office, but would not allow it on the 
 records. Of these inks one questioned the permanency, 
 and one gave as its recommendation that the " first color is 
 neither purple or mauve, both of which will fade." 
 
 One recording officer used an ink the permanency of which 
 he did not doubt, " owing to the age of the formula and 
 length of years ; " another used this ink if a steel pen was 
 used, but mixed it with the fluid of another manufacture for 
 use with a orold nen. Still another mixed it with the ink of 
 another manufacture in equal parts. 
 
114 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 One ink has been used in one office for sixty-eight years, 
 and in another for forty-nine. This had two other advo- 
 cates. Per contra, three have rejected it. Of fifteen other 
 inks reported as in use, the general answer in regard to the 
 qualities which recommend them is the easy flow and free- 
 dom from sediment. 
 
 The following remarks were added : " I have used it long 
 enough to know of its durability." " The trouble with the 
 ink is that once a week you have an inkstand half full of 
 mud." " I find it difficult to find an ink the permanency of 
 which I dare trust." " It corrodes the pen." " Think that 
 after a time the desire to make large profits serves to induce 
 manufacturers to cheapen the quality, and not let it mature 
 enouo;h in the vats." " I have tried all kinds. This is 
 possibly as permanent as any." " It is true it thickens by 
 exposure, but any ink will." " Aniline fluid is not an ink." 
 
 " I have put it in the sun beside of ink, which has 
 
 fiided, while this has not. I have during the past few years 
 made many experiments in the way of testing inks, subject- 
 ing the writing for long periods to sunlight and water." 
 ' ' Many popular inks are worthless for the purpose of a 
 recording officer." " Used this for twenty years. If there 
 is anything better, I want to know it." 
 
 These replies and comments showed that, if some were 
 right in their conclusions, others were wrong, as some were 
 using inks or fluids which others were satisfied were not per- 
 manent ; that some were using those with which they found 
 it easiest to write, taking the risk of their not being perma- 
 nent ; that inks were condemned because they had more 
 body and were less agreeable to use ; and that inks were 
 being mixed regardless of the chemical eflects. 
 
 To ascertain what kind of inks were in use by the town 
 clerks, I examined the registration volumes before referred 
 to, and, as before stated, found many poor inks in use. In 
 a few cases blue inks were used, and in two violet, which is, 
 as a rule, if not always, a fugitive color. A number of the 
 returns in these volumes of as recent date as 1875 were 
 almost illegible, and three made in 1888 were nearly as 
 indistinct. 
 
 The more I looked into the subject, the more I became 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 115 
 
 convinced that the whole subject of ink was one upon which 
 the persons using it were comparatively ignorant. Consul- 
 tation with experts satisfied me that good inks were being 
 injured by improper treatment ; that the custom of mixing 
 inks and of adding water to them was unsafe ; and that 
 among the inks reported as in use upon the records there 
 were many manufactured for commercial uses which should 
 not be used upon records, and which the manufacturers 
 would say were not intended for record inks. I therefore 
 sent to the manufacturers of the inks reported as in use by 
 the recording oiEcers, and to some others, the following 
 letter and inquiries : — 
 
 The fading of much of the ink used in records of comparatively 
 recent date, while as a rule the records of two hundred years ago 
 are as legible as when written, establishes the fact that for perma- 
 nent qualities much of the modern ink is inferior to the ancient, 
 and that inks are used that are unfit for making a record which 
 should stand for all time. 
 
 I am led to believe that most ink manufacturers make inks 
 which are good for commercial and other uses where there is no 
 desire for a permanent record, but which they would not recom- 
 mend for use where the important object was the permanency of 
 the record. One of the dangers to which our records are exposed 
 can be obviated by the use of proper inks ; and I desire to obtain 
 the opinion of the leading manufacturers on the subject, that I may 
 advise the recording officers of the State what are, and what are 
 not, safe inks to use for records. 
 
 I shall esteem it a favor, therefore, if you will answer the en- 
 closed questions, and return them at your convenience. Your 
 reply will be treated as confidential as far as names are concerned, 
 except in the answer to question No. 5, and that will not be 
 printed if you so request. Any general opinion which will aid 
 the recording officers in their selection of ink or paper will be 
 welcomed. 
 
 1. Do you consider it safe to use for a permanent record ani- 
 line inks? 
 
 2. Do you consider it safe to use for a record logwood inks? 
 
 3. Do you consider nut-gall and iron inks absolutely safe for a 
 permanent record? 
 
 4. Do you consider carbon ink the only permanent ink? 
 
 5. What inks of your manufacture would you advise against 
 using for Si j^ermanent record? 
 
116 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 6. Do you advise generally against the inks known as writing 
 fluids, when permanency is the first requisition? 
 
 7. Do you manufacture a writing fluid? 
 
 8. Do you consider it safe to add water to ink intended for 
 permanent record, which has grown thick by exposure to the air? 
 
 9. Do you believe that the obliteration of ink is ever due to 
 chemicals left in the paper ? (This question has been asked of the 
 paper manufacturers also.) 
 
 10. Do you consider it safe to mix inks without knowing to 
 what chemical group the inks so mixed belong ? 
 
 Replies were received from twenty-two manufacturers. 
 Several of the inks in the market, though bearing the name 
 of certain persons, were found to be manufactured for them 
 by manufacturers who had already answered the questions. 
 Their replies were, therefore, not considered. 
 
 To the first question, " Do you consider it safe to use for 
 a permanent record aniline inks?" the unanimous answer 
 was decidedly no. Aniline black is absolutely permanent, 
 but as it is not yet known how to render it soluble in water, 
 it has not been much used in ink. 
 
 To the inquiry in regard to logwood inks, nearly all 
 answered no, and most of those who did not qualified their 
 answers to such an extent as to imply distrust. 
 
 Upon the question of the permanency of nut-gall and iron 
 inks, the answers were more varied ; one answering no, and 
 four answering directly yes, the remaining answers being in 
 brief that such inks were permanent if properly made. 
 
 To the question, "Do you consider carbon ink the only 
 permanent ink ? " the answers were varied and contradictory. 
 Most of the manufacturers said a carbon ink could not be 
 permanent, because carbon was insoluble ; and some said 
 that no chemical union could exist between carbon and the 
 other ingredients in ink. Others claimed that carbon was 
 the one permanent color, and cited the old Indian and 
 Chinese inks which have stood for centuries as illustrations 
 of its permanency. These statements were so widely difier- 
 ent that I pursued the inquiry further, and found it was 
 conceded that, if a process could be discovered by which 
 carbon could be dissolved and made to retain its color, no 
 known substance would make so permanent an ink ; but that 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 117 
 
 there was no such process, and in the inks now made the 
 carbon was snnply held in suspension in the ink without any 
 chemical union ; but I found also that improvement has been 
 made, and that it is possible to combine the carbon with 
 chemicals which will cause the carbon to embody itself. 
 More than ordinary care should, however, be exercised in 
 the purchase of carbon inks, for the lack of chemical union 
 would cause a tendency to precipitate the carbon if the ink 
 were improperly made. 
 
 The replies to the inquiry, "Do you advise generally 
 against the inks known as writing fluids, when permanency 
 is the first requisition?" were in a way the most unsatis- 
 factory, and savored somewhat of advertising. One manu- 
 facturer made no fluid, and had no opinion to express. Most 
 of the others made fluids. Nine advised generally against 
 their use ; four recommendeid them in preference to ink ; 
 and the others either advised generally against them, but 
 recommended their own, or qualified the answer in such a 
 way as to throw doubt on them. 
 
 The argument in their favor seems to be that their fluidity 
 makes them permeate the paper, and, in the change of color 
 which usually takes place after using, a dyeing of the paper 
 results. The objections are", that to obtain the fluidity body 
 must be sacrificed, and there is not enough substance de- 
 posited upon the paper. The objections made by two manu- 
 facturers of fluids I give in their own words. 
 
 " We advise generally against the inks known simply as writing 
 fluids — those not intended to yiekl a letter-press copy — because 
 they are Wiversally made, first, with as little solid matter as pos- 
 sible, — i.e. weak; second, with an excess of iron beyond that 
 required to. conibine with the tannin, so as to develop all the 
 color possible and flow witfi the greatest freedom. The combined 
 writing and copying fluids, and the copying fluids on the other 
 hand if properly made, may be justly recommended where perma- 
 nency is the first requisition, particularly the older ones, which 
 should be the most durable of all nut-gall and iron inks, because 
 in them particularly concentration is aimed at, and the iron need 
 not necessarily, and should not, be in excess of that required to 
 combine with the tannin present. A steel pen during use injures, 
 and often greatly, the durability of a writing ink by giving up iron 
 to it." 
 
118 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 "For your purpose, where extreme permanency is the first 
 requisition, I should not advise the use of an ordinary writing 
 fluid. Mauy manufacturers cannot obtain sufficient fluidity in their 
 writing fluids without making their inlvs very dilute, and observing 
 a particular method of manufacture which, although providing 
 more attained color for a time, sacrifices the permanent quality of 
 their color in a great measure. I should advise the use of an ink 
 decidedly stronger." 
 
 The addition of water to ink was almost universally con- 
 demned, for reasons stated later. As proof that this was 
 not for the mercenary purpose of indirectly advising the use 
 of more ink, some of the manufacturers said the ink should 
 be kept in small-mouthed ink-stands, and when not in use 
 should be as tightly sealed as possible, to prevent evaporation. 
 
 In reply to the inquiry as to whether chemicals left in the 
 paper ever obliterated the ink, several of the manufacturers 
 said they knew of such cases, and all were agreed that, if 
 the chlorides used for bleaching the paper were not washed 
 out, they would dangerously affect any ink. The practice 
 of mixing inks was universally condemned. 
 
 I intended to publish the names of the inks or fluids 
 which, in reply to the fifth question, the manufacturers 
 thereof advised against using upon records ; but, fearing it 
 possible that harm might be done to a manufacturer by the 
 careless association of his name with the question rather than 
 with the name of a particular ink of his manufacture, I have 
 not. Many of the manufacturers have answered the ques- 
 tion candidly, and such will, undoubtedly, answer any 
 recording officer who asks the question for himself. By their 
 replies it appears that some inks and fluids which they say 
 should not be are in use upon records. 
 
 Permanency against the action of time is the quality sought 
 for in this investigation, and it is claimed that better evidence 
 as to that quality is furnished by the test of time than by any 
 other ; and manufacturers have shown or referred to speci- 
 mens of writing made with their ink many years ago, as 
 proof of its merit in this particular. If there was any surety 
 that the standard of quality was always kept up in all of the 
 oldest inks in the market, it would be safe to accept that test, 
 but this may not be a fact ; and, as has been stated, some 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 119 
 
 of the recording officers believe that it is not. Moreover, 
 if only the old inks were to be accepted, it would be against 
 the spirit of the age, which is to adopt the improvements 
 which science makes possi'ole ; and manuf icturers who at 
 great cost of time and money have made improvements, 
 would be deprived of the compensation which they deserve. 
 The old inks were as a rule heavy, and had a tendency to 
 settle ; and the endeavor on the part of some manufacturers 
 lias been to preserve the permanency, and at the same time 
 produce thinner inks which would be more agreeable to use. 
 
 Improvements have been made in the direction of free- 
 flowing inks, and these are fast becoming popular ; and, 
 while for correspondence and commercial uses they are 
 undoubtedly sufficiently permanent, for records many of 
 them are not ; and it was with a view of preventing the use 
 of these upon records that this investigation was made. No 
 attention has been given to the permanency of the inks, as 
 against their removal by acids. 
 
 I have been asked by several of the recording officers to 
 recommend a permanent ink, and some persons who knew of 
 this investigation have expected that it would result in the 
 recommendation of a particular ink for records. Such a 
 recommendation would be an official endorsement which 
 would be unjust, if not actionable, unless every ink in the 
 market had been considered and examined chemically. 
 
 What I hope chiefly to accomplish by this investigation is 
 to awaken persons making records, official or other, to the 
 necessity of the greatest care in the selection of inks and 
 their treatment, and to call their attention to the important 
 fact that the very quality — easy flow and freedom from 
 sediment — that makes many inks popular with the per- 
 sons doing the recording, is their worst recommendation for 
 records. 
 
 The conclusions arrived at from the weight of evidence 
 obtained are as follows, and should be of assistance to 
 recording officers, who ought to have some knowledge of 
 the chemical properties of the ink which they use, that they 
 may know how to treat it, otherwise the best ink may be 
 rendered worthless. 
 
 Aniline inks are never permanent, and should not be used 
 
120 EEPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 upon records. If once obliterated by the action of light, 
 heat, water, or other changes, no known means can render 
 them again legible. 
 
 Logwood inks should not be used upon records. Tf they 
 do not entirely fade, they have a tendency to turn brown. 
 
 Nut-gall and iron inks, if properly made, are permanent. 
 There is an advantage in the use of these, in that if the 
 writing should fade it can be repeatedly restored by a nut- 
 gall or tannin solution. 
 
 Carbon inks, if properly made, are permanent. There are 
 few carbon inks made, although some others are so called. 
 Great care should be exercised in purchasing them, as they 
 would be very dangerous if improperly made. 
 
 Most of the brilliant colored inks will fade quickly. 
 
 As to the so-called writing fluids, the difference of opinion 
 among the manufacturers makes it difficult to advise for or 
 against them as a class ; but that very difference makes it 
 incumbent upon a recording officer to have a scientific opinion 
 upon a particular fluid before using it upon his records. 
 Fluids which the makers do not claim to be permanent are 
 now in use upon the records. 
 
 Copying inks should not be used upon records. Sugar, 
 glycerine, glucose, or similar materials are used in them, to 
 preserve moisture and give them the property of offsetting. 
 Any dampness makes them liable to become sticky, and to 
 offset, thereby not only making them blur, 'but lose part 
 of the substance which should be absorbed by the paper. 
 
 Stylographic inks should not be used upon records. 
 Most of them are aniline. The absence of solid matter, 
 which makes them desirable for the stylographic pen, unfits 
 them for records. 
 
 Water should not be added to ink. While an ink which 
 has water as its base would bear the addition of an amount 
 equal to that lost by evaporation, the ink would be injured 
 to just the extent that water in excess of that amount was 
 added. An ink where water, though present, was not the 
 basis, would be injured by the addition of any, A homely 
 illustration of the reason of this is given by one of the 
 manufacturers : a thick soup may be improved by the addi- 
 tion of water while it is cooking, whereas it would bo ruinsd 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 121 
 
 if the water were added after the cooking ceased ; for in the 
 former case a chemical union talves place, but in the latter 
 the union is mechanical and not lastins;. 
 
 Inks should never be mixed unless by the sanction of 
 chemists. The mixture of certain inks would result in the 
 precipitation of everything but the water. 
 
 Inks which are recommended as permanent, because acid 
 will not remove them, while it does immediately obliterate 
 others, may not be permanent as against time. These inks 
 may be the best for monetary purposes, but, owing to acid 
 in them, may be dangerous in time to the paper. 
 
 Some inks which are permanent against time, if not tam- 
 pered with, can be removed with water. This is true of the 
 most lasting of ink, — the ancient Indian. 
 
 Ink which badly corrodes a steel pen need not necessarily 
 be condemned ; it may contain just the acid qualities which 
 make it permeate the paper, and render it permanent. 
 
 Blotting paper should not be used upon records. Its use 
 removes the body of the ink, leaving discoloration, but 
 nothing for penetration. In inks intended for copying, the 
 use of the blotting paper is especially bad. 
 
 Inks should be kept tightly covered when not in use, and 
 ink-stands should be frequently washed. 
 
 The use of acid for mahinj erasures is dangprous, as the 
 acid left in the paper may have a tendency to destroy the ink 
 when the paper is again written upon. 
 
 The use of proper ink is considered so important by the 
 British government that the inks used in the public depart- 
 ments are obtained by public tender, in accordance with con- 
 ditions drawn up by the controller of H. M. stationery 
 office, with the assistance of the chief chemist of the inland 
 revenue department, to whom the inks supplied by the con- 
 tractor are from time to time submitted for analysis Suit- 
 able inks for the various uses are thus obtained, and their 
 standard maintained. The last form of '' invitation to ten- 
 der," or " proposal," as we term it, is appended, as being 
 instructive. 
 
 I cannot learn that the United States 2:overnment uses 
 any such care as the British in the matter of ink, although 
 the question has been a troublesome one in the departments. 
 
122 EEPORT ON PUBLIC RECOEDS. [Jan. 
 
 The State department issues no special rules for determining 
 suitable inks, or requiring that particular inks shall be used. 
 Proposals are asked for the lowest bids for the articles of 
 stationery required, the last form of proposal asking for 
 bids upon seven black inks, one crimson, and one writing 
 fluid, which are named. 
 
 With the market full of inks worthless for records, the 
 only safety for our records seems to be in the establishment 
 of a system similar to the English, which shall fix upon 
 proper inks for various uses, which all recording officers 
 shall be required to use. 
 
 I believe that the recording officers will be glad to have 
 the question of permanent inks decided for them, and to know 
 whether inks which were in use many years ago, and have 
 stood the test thus far, are maintained at their old standard. 
 In the face of sharp competition among manufacturers, they 
 fear they are not. 
 
 A minute chemical analysis of each of the inks reported 
 in use by the recording officers would have been too expen- 
 sive to undertake, and I was assured that the results would 
 not have been practically satisfactory ; but, having the state- 
 ments of the manufacturers that certain chemical classes of 
 inks were or were not permanent, I had samples analyzed of 
 such of the inks reported in use by the recording officers as 
 I could obtain, and some others which were upon the 
 
 '9 
 market, to determine to what chemical classes they belonged. 
 
 The samples were from the inks bought in open market as 
 
 follows, and were submitted to the chemists by numbers, nx) 
 
 names being known to them. 
 
 1. Stafford's Commercial Ink, — "Writing Fluid. 
 
 2. Stafford's Unchangeable, Universal, Jet Black "Writing 
 
 Ink. 
 
 3. Stafford's Chemical Writing Fluid. 
 
 4. Ebony Black Writing Ink, J. & I. E. Moore. 
 
 5. Underwood's Egyptian Black Ink. 
 
 6. Underwood's Chemical Writing Ink, — Cobalt Black. 
 
 7. U. S. Treasury Ledger Fluid, Wm. A. Davis. 
 
 8. Ink, Maynard & Noyes. 
 
 9. Thomas' Black Ink. 
 
 10. Barnes' National Ink, — Writing Fluid. 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 123 
 
 11. Sanford's Premium Fluid. 
 
 12. Stephens' Blue Black Writing Fluid. 
 
 13. H. Morrell's Registration Ink. 
 
 14. Caw's Ink. 
 
 15. Thaddeus Davids Co.'s Steel Pen Ink. 
 
 16. Carter's Writing Fluid. 
 
 17. Carter's Safety Ink. 
 
 18. Carter's Combined Writing and Copying Ink. 
 
 19. Carter's Koal Black Ink. 
 
 20. Carter's Raven Black Ink. 
 
 21. Arnold's Office and Steel Pen Writing Ink. 
 
 22. Walkden's Japan Ink. 
 
 23. Lyons' Black Ink. 
 
 24. Arnold's Chemical Writing Fluid. 
 
 25. Crystal Writing and Copying Ink, Geo. H. Freeman. 
 
 28. Underwood's Everlasting Bank Ink, — Cobalt Black. 
 
 29. Antoine's Modern Ink, Unchangeable Jet Black. 
 
 30. Murray's Congress Record Ink, — Blue Black. 
 
 31. Best Black Ink, D. B. Murray & Son. 
 82. H. C. Stephens' Commercial Black Ink. 
 
 33. Stephens' Unchangeable Dark Blue Writing Fluid'. 
 
 34. H. C. Stephens' Aeilyton Copying Ink. 
 
 35. W. B. Todd's Government Writing Fluid. 
 
 36. Bonney's Premium French Ink. 
 
 37. Blackwood & Co.'s "Old English" Black Letter Writing 
 
 Ink. 
 
 39. Continental Jet Black Ink. 
 
 40. Pomeroy's Permanent Black Ink. 
 
 54. Zulu Black Writing Ink, J. & I. E. Moore. 
 
 55. Worthington's Diamond Gloss Black Ink. 
 
 56. Joy's Commercial Writing Ink. 
 
 57. The Keystone Unchangeable Jet Black Ink, J. C. Blair. 
 
 58. William A. Davis' U. S. Treasury Combined Writing and 
 
 Copying Ink. 
 
 59 . Draper's Ink (Dichroic) . 
 
 60. Encre Violette, — A. W. Faber. 
 
 6 1 . Stafford's Violet-Black Copying Ink. 
 
 62. Maynard & Noyes' Violet-Black Writing and Copying Ink. 
 
 63. Sanford's Combined Writing and Copying Fluid. 
 
 64. Maynard & Noyes Chemical Writing Fluid. 
 
 65. Sanford's Ink, French Copying. 
 
 66. The A. T. Cross Stylographic Ink. 
 
 67. Dunlap's Stylographic Ink. 
 
124 EEPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 Nos. 26, 27, and 38 bore labels of stationers who were not 
 manufacturers, the same inks undoubtedly being included in 
 the above numbers. Nos. 41 to 53 were fancy colored inks, 
 which faded almost instantly upon exposure to light, and 
 none of these were submitted for examination. 
 
 Tbe reputation of the chemists making the analyses is suf- 
 cient guarantee of their accuracy. Prof. George F. H. Markoe, 
 Ph.G., is professor of general chemistry at the Massachusetts 
 College of Pharmacy, is now and has been for many years a 
 member of the committee of revision and publication of the 
 U. S. Pharmacopoeia, and was formerly instructor of Materia 
 Medica at Harvard University. Prof. J. W. Baird, A.M., 
 Ph.C, M.D., is professor of analytical chemistry at the Col- 
 lege of Pharmacy. 
 
 Their report is as follows : — 
 
 Boston, Dec. 8, 1890. 
 Commissioner on Public Records, etc. 
 
 Sir : — We present herewith our report upon the fifty-one sam- 
 ples of ink submitted to us for classification. 
 
 Writing inks are liquids, colored either with some freely soluble 
 material, or by means of a finely divided precipitate held in sus- 
 pension. Any material that is capable of imparting a color may 
 be used. But in this report only those materials will be consid- 
 ered that produce liquids with a sufficient color to be classed under 
 the head of dark inks, principally black or black modified (i. e., 
 the green, purple and blue black, the dark blue and the deep red- 
 dish and purplish inks). 
 
 Formerly ordinary writing inks consisted of an infusion or 
 decoction of nut-galls, with a solution of ferrous sulphate, known 
 also as copperas, green vitriol, sulphate of iron, added. In this 
 mixture there is produced a precipitate, lighter or darker, depend- 
 ing upon the method of manufacture and length of time since 
 manufactured, as will be seen further on. 
 
 The solution of iron sulphate absorbs oxygen from the air, and 
 is converted more or less into a product which will be called in this 
 report oxidized iron. The nut-galls contain gallo-tannic acid, and 
 some little gallic acid. The gallo-tannic acid forms with iron com- 
 Dounds a precipitate ; with unchanged iron sulphate, the precipitate 
 is Uglit-colovQdL ; with oxidized iron, the precipitate is dark col- 
 ored, — gray black to black. G-ailo-tannic acid is, when moist, 
 converted by exposure to air more or less into gallic acid. 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 125 
 
 Gallic acid strikes a darker color with oxidized iron than does 
 gallo-tannic acid. 
 
 From the above facts it will be seen that, when the ingredi- 
 ents — iron sulphate and galls — are mixed, not much color is pro- 
 duced, but that the color develops by exposure of the ink, due to 
 the conversion principally of the iron into oxidized iron, and partly 
 of the gallo-tannic into gallic acid. 
 
 From this it would appear theoretically that the more the conver- 
 sion the better the ink, but that is not so. The ink must contain 
 enough oxidized iron to give color sufficient when first written to 
 be distinctly legible, but should also contain unoxidized iron, so 
 that, after it is upon the paper, the exposure there will cause this 
 unoxidized iron gradually to be oxidized, and by that means make 
 the color deepen with age. A further reason why a proportion of 
 the iron should remain unoxidized is, that the process of oxida- 
 tion and precipitation causes the ink to become more intimately 
 fixed in the fibres of the paper. 
 
 To obtain the oxidized iron, the ink, after it is mixed, must stand 
 exposed for some time ; then it should be drawn off and bottled, 
 thereby excluding the air, and thus retaining a portion of the iron 
 in an unoxidized state. 
 
 As above said, a precipitate is produced between the solution of 
 galls and that of iron, which gives the color. This precipitate will 
 settle out and leave the solution poor in color, unless something is 
 added to keep it in suspension. To accomplish that, to all gall inks 
 some gum is added, generally gum-arabic. Tliis gum has an 
 additional use, viz., gives a gloss to the writing, and, if not in 
 excess, probably attaches the precipitate more firmly to the paper. 
 An excess, however, would without doubt tend to keep the pi'ecipi- 
 tate upon the surface, and not allow it to bite into the fibres of the 
 paper. Therefore, only enough gum should be used to hold the 
 precipitate in suspension. 
 
 To sum up, a good gall and iron ink must contain sufficient galls 
 and iron sulphate to furnish material from which the color can be 
 formed, and must have been exposed a sufficient time to allow the 
 color to be formed, and must then be excluded from the air (bot- 
 tled) , so it will contain some unoxidized iron, and finally must 
 contain the proper amount of gum. 
 
 Theoretically, it might appear that the more material used the 
 better the ink, producing more color and more body. Up to a cer- 
 tain extent this is so, but after about a certain point the inks will 
 be too heavy to flow easily from the pen. The more material that 
 an ink contains, and still flows comfortably, the better the ink, 
 as regards permanency. 
 
12G REPORT ON |UBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 The following table, taken from the highest authorities, 
 shows the composition of gull inks of different grades : — 
 
 Nut-galls, . 
 Iron sulphate, 
 Gum-arabic, 
 Water, 
 
 Allen's Commercial 
 OuGANic Analysis. 
 
 A. 
 
 Superior 
 
 225 
 
 75 
 
 25 
 
 1000 
 
 B. 
 
 Inferior 
 
 62 
 31 
 31 
 
 1000 
 
 Watt'S^Dictionart 
 OF -Chemistry. 
 
 C. 
 Too heavy 
 
 225 
 
 225 
 
 25 
 
 1000 
 
 1). 
 
 Ordinary use 
 
 125 
 
 24 
 
 24 
 
 1000 
 
 A, woiikl represent the composition of a superior writing ink, 
 too strong for ordinary use, but undoubtedly admirably adapted 
 for permanent recorda . 
 
 B, an inferior ink. 
 
 C, an ink too heavy for writing purposes. 
 
 D, an ink well adapted for ordinary use. 
 
 The gall and iron ink (above described) has always been con- 
 sidered the best black iuk. It deepens on exposure, bites into the 
 fibres of the paper, does not fade readily, and, even if the organic 
 matter is destroyed or faded, yet, if the ink contains plenty of 
 iron, the iron compounds remaining in the paper can be made 
 legible by the use of certain chemical reagents; e. g., brushing 
 over with solution of potassium ferrocyanide (yellow prussiate of 
 potash) or a solution of nut-galls, thereby striking a dark color 
 with the iron. Inks other than iron inks do not have this property. 
 
 The most permanent black color is the tanno-gallate of iron (the 
 color in the gall and iron ink) , and any other coloring matter, used 
 either wholly as a substitute or to substitute a portion of the galls 
 and iron, only impairs the quality of ink. Of late years this has 
 been done to a considerable extent, and consequently the market 
 is flooded with manj^ cheap and inferior inks. They give a deep 
 and an immediate color when written, but their color cannot stand 
 the test of the atmosphere, light, and time. 
 
 Of otlier coloring matter found in inks, the first to be men- 
 tioned is : — 
 
 Logwood, which is used not only for its individual color, but for 
 the tannin it contains. It gives a darker hue to the ink, and there- 
 fore is often substituted for the galls, to cheapen the ink, or 
 is added to an inferior ink to give additional color. Logwood 
 alone or with alum is commonly the basis of the reddish and 
 purplish Inks. Logwood with potassium chromate forms a black 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 127 
 
 ink. The objection to logwood is that comparatively it fades 
 readily, will not stand the test of time and light, and when used 
 alone cannot be restored after once faded. Therefore, logwood 
 inks should not be used for records. 
 
 s/^ Since the introduction of the aniline dyes, they have been largely 
 employed for the manufacture of ink, either wholly to replace the 
 galls and iron, or as an addition to them, to allow the use of only 
 a little galls and iron. They are also mixed with other colors. 
 Under the name of nigrosine (an aniline black) , there are found 
 a variety of very strong dyes, which are perfectly soluble in water, 
 and which in the proportion of from 1 to 3 per cent., perhaps 
 without further addition, represent fairly closely the commercial 
 inks of this variety. Such inks are cheap, give an immediate 
 black, have very little body, and are popular for use as stylo- 
 graphic inks. 
 
 Although some of the nigrosines are very resistent to chemical 
 reagents, yet many of them are not, and do fade under the influ- 
 ence of light, while none of them have been tried sufficiently to 
 prove their permanence. Another objection is their free solubility 
 in water, which makes it comparatively easy to wash such inks 
 from the paper, and allows them to run if accidentally wet. Fur- 
 thermore, they do not enter the paper as gall and iron inks do. 
 
 There is a very popular class of inks on the market, known as, — 
 
 Blne-hlack ivritivg fluids^ or simply tvriting fluids.' They consist 
 generally of a thin gall and iron ink, with sulphindigotic acid or 
 indigo-carmine, sometimes aniline blue, added to give intensitj'' to 
 the color. They flow readily from the pen, give an immediate 
 color, and are much employed. For ordinary use they are excel- 
 lent. But, because of their thinness and lack of metallic basis, 
 they are generally acknowledged, even by their manufacturers, as 
 not well adapted for permanent records. 
 
 There is a variety of blue ink, made of soluble Prussian -blue. 
 It can be easily made by dissolving Prussian-blue in oxalic acid. 
 It has essentially the same composition as laundry bluing. It is 
 resistant, but is very apt to decompose. 
 
 There is a black ink known as carbon ink, which has nigrosine 
 as a basis, and has also finely divided carbon suspended by gum. 
 It is very resistant to chemicals, the most so of any ink ; but, 
 although this is so, we cannot advise its use for records, because 
 it does not penetrate the glaze of the paper ordinarily used ; 
 because it can be more or less easily washed off with water ; and 
 because it runs easily when wet. 
 
 To prevent inks from moulding, various substances are added ; 
 e. (/., essential oils, bruised cloves, carbolic acid, vinegar, etc. 
 
128 
 
 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. 
 
 [Jan. 
 
 The addition of acid retards the oxidation of the iron. The ink 
 therefore remains thinner and pale, darkens less rapidly when 
 written, and is more corrosive to steel pens. Otherwise, the addi- 
 tion of small amiounts of preservative agents does no harm. 
 
 The so-called copying inks are made by a small addition of sugar 
 or glycerine to any ink. Even if a rich gall and iron ink is so pre- 
 pared, the additions that give its copying qualities injure it as a 
 record ink. The commercial copying inks are generally :nade with 
 logwood as a basis. 
 
 The following is the classification of the inks sent to us for 
 examination. The classification is as accurate as can be made, 
 unless exhaustive chemical analysis be conducted upon each ink, 
 which it was not desired that we should make. 
 
 Classification. 
 A. The Distinctly Reddish and Purplish Inks. — Logwood mostly. 
 
 /. The Bed. 
 
 XCMBFPS. 
 
 Specific 
 Gravity 
 
 Numbers. 
 
 Speciflc 
 Gravity 
 
 34, . ... 
 
 61, .... 
 
 1.090 
 
 1.047 
 
 62, . 
 
 65 
 
 1 
 
 1.044 
 
 1.061 
 
 11. The Purple. 
 
 B. TJie Deep Purple-hlack and Blue-black Inks. — Iron and 
 galls ; some with little color, some with more. (Of this class, 
 number 23 does not stand the required test, and is too thin.) , 
 
 6 
 
 1.041 
 
 22, . 
 
 1.051 
 
 8 
 
 1.032 
 
 23 
 
 1.019 
 
 13 
 
 1.041 
 
 31, ... . 
 
 1.027 
 
 15, . . . 
 
 1.026 
 
 63, . 
 
 1.042 
 
 18 
 
 1.046 
 
 
 
1891.] 
 
 SENATE — No. 2. 
 
 129 
 
 C. The Purple-blue Inks. — Some contain iron, others do not. 
 Some are apparently nigrosine. Others contain logwood, and 
 some are evidently mixtures. The division below may not be 
 absolutely correct, but the class as a whole has considerable color 
 added. 
 
 J. Nigrosine, 
 
 Ndmbees. 
 
 Specific 
 Gravity 
 
 NUMBEBS. 
 
 Specific 
 Gravity 
 
 4 
 
 9, .... 
 14, .... 
 19, .... 
 
 1.006 
 1.010 
 1.006 
 1.006 
 
 36, . . 
 56, . 
 
 66, . 
 
 67, . . . . 
 
 1.006 
 l.OU 
 1.003 
 1.007 
 
 II. Mixed Inks, probably Logwood and Nigrosine. 
 
 20 
 
 39, .... 
 
 40, .... 
 
 1.011 
 1.011 
 1.009 
 
 54 
 
 55, . 
 
 57, . . . . 
 
 1.012 
 _i 
 
 1.006 
 
 III. Iron and Galls with Nigrosvie for Added Color. 
 
 5, 
 
 1.020 
 
 D. The Deep-blue Inks. 
 
 I. This is the class to which most of the so-called writing fluids belong. 
 Mostly iron and galls, with indigo color added. 
 
 1 
 
 1.026 
 
 12, . 
 
 1.021 
 
 7, . . 
 
 1.014 
 
 16, . 
 
 1.020 
 
 10, .... 
 
 1.017 
 
 28, ... . 
 
 1.015 
 
 11 
 
 1.019 
 
 30, . 
 
 1.027 
 
 II. Prussian-blue Inks. 
 
 33,« 
 
 33 a,' 
 
 > Specimen too small to take specific gravity. 
 
 » Decomposed. ^ a good blue. See p. 127. 
 
130 
 
 EEPOET ON PUBLIC EECORDS. 
 
 [Jan. 
 
 E. The Black and Greenish-black Inks. 
 
 I. Pure galls, and iron and galls, and iron toith only little color added. 
 
 A. Green Black. 
 
 Numbers. 
 
 Specific 
 Gravity 
 
 Color added or not 
 
 Mineral 
 Matter in 50 
 
 Cubic 
 Centimeters 
 
 Calculated 
 anjount of Iron 
 
 Sulphate 
 in 1,000 Cubic 
 Centimeters 
 
 3, . , . 
 
 24, . , . 
 
 25, . 
 35, . 
 58, . 
 64, . 
 
 1.029 
 1.021 
 1.044 
 1.024 
 1.032 
 1.026 
 
 Little added color, 
 Little added color, 
 
 Little added color, 
 
 0.541 
 
 0.5234 
 
 0.7395 
 
 0.528 
 
 0.7418 
 
 0.5646 
 
 37.6 
 36.4 
 61.4 
 36.6 
 51.6 
 39.2 
 
 
 
 B. Black. 
 
 
 
 21, . . . 
 
 1.041 
 
 Little added color. 
 
 0.6777 
 
 46.96 
 
 32, . 
 
 1.033 
 
 Little added color, 
 
 0.4797 
 
 33.4 
 
 37, . 
 
 1.070 
 
 Little added color. 
 
 1.3185 
 
 91.6 
 
 
 11. 
 
 Carbon and Nigrosine. 
 
 XtJMBKKS. 
 
 Specific Gravity 
 
 17 
 
 _1 _ 
 
 According to the reasons given in the first part of this report, the 
 mks, under all the classes, except the following under B, and E, I., 
 viz., numbers 3, 6, 8, 13, 15, 18, 21, 22, 24, 25, 31, 32, 35, 37, 58, 
 63, 64, should be discarded /o?* records. Of the numbers just men- 
 tioned, only three apparently have no color added. The amount 
 of color, however, is small, and that in itself probably does not 
 injure the ink. 
 
 It will also be noticed that there is great variation in the gravi- 
 ties. In order to show comparatively the amount of mineral 
 matter in these, we have obtained the residues of 50 cubic centi- 
 meters by ignition with nitric acid, and this has been calculated 
 to parts of crystallized iron sulphate per 1,000 cubic centimeters 
 (of use to show comparative values only) , all of which is shown 
 
 1 Specific gravity not material. 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 131 
 
 in the table. By comparison with the composition of gall inks of 
 different grades given in the first table in this report wherein ink 
 classed as " A " is taken as a standard for record ink, it can 
 easily be seen to which grade of inks each number corresponds, 
 and it will be found that all but one are deficient in iron sulphate ; 
 and, without making a special determination, they 'are all, in our 
 opinion, deficient in galls (taking the "superior inks" as a 
 standard) . 
 
 As a conclusion, since the great mass of inks on the market are 
 not suitable for records, because of their lack of body and because 
 of the quantity of unstable color which they contain, and because 
 the few whose coloring matters are not objectionable are deficient 
 in galls and iron, or both, we would strongly recommend that the 
 State set its own standard for the composition of inks to be used 
 in its offices and for its records, have the inks manufactured 
 according to specification sent out, and receive the manufactured 
 products subject to chemical assay. In this way only can there be 
 a uniformity in the inks used for the records throughout the State., 
 and in no other way can a proper standard be maintained. 
 
 Geokge F. H. Markoe, Ph.G., 
 
 Professor General Chemistry, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. 
 
 J. W. Baird, A.m., Ph.C, M.D., 
 
 Professor Analytical Chemistry, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. 
 
 Boston, Mass., Dec. 5, 1890. 
 
 The conclusions at which I arrived were drawn, as stated^ 
 from manufacturers or recording officers, wholly indepen- 
 dently of the chemists ; but they will be found to coincide 
 in many particulars with theirs. I did consult them in 
 regard to the practicability of maintaining a State standard 
 for record ink, which they have approved. 
 
 The commendation by the chemists of some of the so-called 
 writing fluids explains in a degree the variety of opinions 
 advanced by the manufacturers in regard to the durability of 
 fluids. Some of them will be seen to possess the qualities 
 of ink, and the name fluid is evidently given to meet the 
 commercial demand for fluids. 
 
 Several persons, manufacturers among them, expressed 
 greater confidence in tests of exposure of inks to the light 
 and weather, than to chemical analyses. I, therefore, as a 
 dry test, placed on the inside of a window pane receiving a 
 
132 EEPORT ON PUBLIC EECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 strong light, writing made under exactly the same condi- 
 tions with each of sixty-seven inks, which remained there 
 from March 13 to December 8. Similar writing was 
 exposed to light and the weather from September 25 to 
 December 8 ; and the result of the resistance of the inks in 
 both tests is an almost exact confirmation of the report of 
 the chemists, inks of the same class varying in their resist- 
 ance according to their specific gravity or amount of added 
 color. 
 
 It may be safely said, therefore, that, of sixty-seven 
 inks of which I procured samples, all but seventeen are 
 unsuitable for records, and among these the chemists say 
 but one is fully up to the established scientific standard 
 of quantity of iron sulphate. The reason is plain, — the 
 demand for commercial inks is large, for record, small ; and 
 the supply has been to meet the demand. 
 
 Record Paper. 
 
 The subject of paper for public records is an important 
 one, especially at this time, when wood is largely used in 
 the manufacture of paper. 
 
 Section 1 of chapter 37 of the Public Statutes provides 
 as follows: "The matters of public record in any office 
 shall be entered or recorded on paper made wholly of linen, 
 of a firm texture, well sized, and well finished ; and in the 
 selection of paper for such records a preference shall be 
 given to linen paper of American manufacture, if it is 
 marked in water line with the word ' linen,' and also with 
 the name of the manufacturer." 
 
 The law has practically been a dead letter, for the follow- 
 ing reasons, and it is surprising that it has remained so long 
 unrepealed : no paper is made wholly of linen, except for 
 bonds or other special uses other than for records, and it 
 would be unfit for records if it were ; paper is marked 
 " linen " which is not linen, and is not bought for linen, the 
 term being accepted in the paper trade as applying to the 
 best papers, which are about one-half linen ; none but experts 
 could know whether paper was all linen, if it were desirable 
 to purchase it. 
 
 Many who purchase bound record books think a low- 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 133 
 
 priced I)Ook is economical ; and, the price, size, and general 
 style being satisfactory, if the paper has a good surface, 
 'little attention has been paid to its quality. The county 
 recording officers and persons using paper in unbound form 
 have undoubtedly used the standard reliable papers, but, 
 in doing the best thing possible, have been obliged to non- 
 comply with the law. 
 
 With a view of obtaining information of the paper manu- 
 facturers upon the subject, I sent to every manufacturer in 
 the State, whose address I could obtain, a circular quoting 
 the section referred to, and asking his opinion upon the fol- 
 lowing points : — 
 
 1 . Is paper made wholly of linen the best record paper now 
 made? 
 
 2. Is paper made wholly or partly of wood suitable for records ? 
 
 3. Is there any way in which a person not an expert can detect 
 the presence of any considerable amount of unfit material in 
 paper ? 
 
 4. Would it be practicable to require that paper made wholly 
 or partly of wood should have some distinguishing mark to show 
 that fact? 
 
 5. Do you believe that the obliteration of ink is ever due to 
 the presence of chemicals left in the paper ? 
 
 Replies were received from twenty-eight, including the 
 leading manufacturers, and the following conclusions were 
 drawn from their replies : — 
 
 Paper made of linen rags and new cotton clippings is the 
 best record paper. 
 
 Paper made of all linen is not suitable for records, as the 
 surface is too hard for the ink to penetrate, and it can be 
 washed off. 
 
 Paper made wholly or partly of wood is not suitable for 
 records. 
 
 A person not an expert cannot detect unfit material in 
 paper, unless it exists in very large quantities. 
 
 It would not be practicable to require that paper made 
 wholly or partly of wood should be so marked. Some man- 
 ufacturers are of the opinion that any distinguishing mark 
 is valueless; and the universal use of the word "linen" 
 
134 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 upon paper which is known not to be linen tends to support 
 that opinion. 
 
 Neglect to properly wash out the chemicals used for 
 bleaching rags or for treating wood would undoubtedly 
 cause the ink to be obliterated, to a greater or less extent. 
 
 Several of the manufacturers gave their opinions at length 
 upon some of the points ; and, as they are instructive, I 
 quote them : — 
 
 " I am glad that you are looking into this matter, as I think 
 trouble is coming in the future from the quality of paper used. 
 We know absolutely nothing about the effects of time upon chemi- 
 cal wood fibres, and a vast amount of these are being used in all 
 papers." 
 
 " To conclude, we would express our opinion that the law of 
 1816 is a good one, with the exception of 'wholly of linen,' 
 which should be ' rags,' and it should also include a provision 
 that paper should have a certain tensile strength. We could with 
 some trouble and expense give the experience of a county in New 
 Jersey, which had to replace a large number of record books on 
 account of the first ones having so much wood in them." 
 
 " My opinion is that the paper made wholly of linen is not any 
 better for record paper than where a portion of the stock, say fifty 
 per cent., is of linen, and the other fifty is of some new material, 
 like unbleached cotton cloth or bleached cotton cloth. You will 
 understand that I mean that this cloth must not have been worn 
 or washed, and in this way it will retain all its strength ; and this 
 paper combined with the linen would be durable, and would not 
 change color." 
 
 " In regard to your second inquiry, my opinion is that fibre 
 made wholly out of wood would be unsuitable for records. While 
 the fibre is similar to that of cotton or linen, it is of a different 
 nature when you come to work it in accordance with the paper- 
 maker's art, and I think it would be likely to disintegrate, or 
 become brittle and of poor color. A small portion of wood 
 might not be any serious injury to paper, but it would undoubt- 
 edly have a tendency to injure the color somewhat, and would not 
 be as strong as old linen and old cotton stock." 
 
 " I do not think it would be practicable to require that paper 
 made wholly or partly of wood should have a designating mark. I 
 think the difficulty would be that, where you purchased paper of 
 the lowest bidder, wood being so much cheaper, there would be a 
 great temptation to put it in, and you would have to rely on the 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 135 
 
 integrity of the paper maker entirely as to whether wood was 
 used, or not." 
 
 "Paper made wholly of linen rags would be unfit for writing pur- 
 poses, as it would be like sheepskin or bond paper." 
 
 " Undoubtedly it is a well-known fact that the pulp-makers 
 have been unable to destroy all the acids in their products ; and, if 
 the chlorine is not ' killed ' at the paper mill, it will act on the ink." 
 
 " I think that the ink is ofteuer at fault than the paper, although 
 the alkalies in paper may affect some kinds of ink. Very little all- 
 linen paper is now made, and it is very hard to write upon, — as 
 bond paper, for instance. Great misconception exists in the pub- 
 lic mind in regard to linen paper, and much that is water-marked 
 linen contains very little linen stock. We once made a lot of 
 paper from all linen, and another lot from ail cotton stock, so 
 nearly alike that good judges could not tell the difference. Wood 
 should not be used in any form in paper for public records. In 
 time it dries, cracks, and crumbles. For a paper to last a long 
 time, that will bear handling and folding, and that will at the same 
 time write upon easily, there is nothing better than a paper made 
 from old linen and new cotton rags, without clay, wood pulp, or 
 other adulterant ; such a paper, in fact, as any of the leading brands 
 of ledger paper." 
 
 " Paper made from cotton, and, say, one-quarter part chemical 
 wood, would be cheaper and still strong enough for record paper, 
 especially when sized with animal sizing, and air-dried without com- 
 ing in contact with hot iron. Much of the paper in account books 
 sold in the market is ' engine-sized ' only, which prevents the ink from 
 spreading, but does not strengthen or harden the paper as animal 
 sizing does. It is this animal sizing that adds to the cost very 
 materially of all good writing paper, but in white paper it can be 
 easily detected by exposure to the sunlight a few days, when it will 
 be found to lose its whiteness, and become a dingy yellow." 
 
 " The great improvement in the treatment of wood fibre by chemi- 
 cal manipulation has rendered this material very different from the 
 ground wood (mechanical process), against which the prejudice 
 against wood in paper making arose originally. There is as much 
 if not a greater difference between wood chemically treated and 
 mechanically treated as there is between wood and rag pulp ; and 
 in many cases a mixture of wood and rag pulp will make a better 
 proper than either will make alone." 
 
 "Paper for records must be pretty hard, especially if bound in 
 volumes of which the leaves are to be much turned and worn, and 
 probably a large percentage, such as fifty per cent., might well be 
 of linen." 
 
136 EEPORT ON PUBLIC EECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 ' ' Iron ink is not obliterated by the chemicals left in the paper. 
 Logwood ink is very likely to be obliterated." 
 
 " Paper made from a combination of linen and new cotton rags, 
 and sized with animal sizing (or glue) , and afterward air-dried, 
 possesses all the qualities requisite for durable records, and is 
 superior to that made of linen only." 
 
 "A simple and practical test to detect unfit material in paper 
 for records is to repeatedly fold the sheet, and then try the 
 strength ; if it breaks easily at fold, it is either made of cheap, 
 tender stock, or is adulterated with material having no textile 
 strength." 
 
 The destruction of the paper in some of the ancient 
 records seems to be unaccounted for, unless the cause lay in 
 the paper itself. Pages have changed color until they have 
 become almost black, and the paper has cracked in irregular 
 lines, the same irregular shape following through very many 
 of the leaves as if cut with a die, and pieces of the pages 
 have dropped out. The darkest and weakest spots are in 
 the centre of both the leaf and the book, the edges of the 
 leaf and the outside leaves showing less of the deteriora- 
 tion. The explanation of this decay advanced by an old and 
 practical paper maker is that the acid used in bleaching the 
 rags was not washed out, and, the heaviest pressure in bind- 
 ing having come upon the centre of the pages, the acid took 
 greater effect there. The ink used upon these discolored 
 pages is as bright as when applied, which is further proof 
 of the permanent character of the ancient inks, and shows 
 that they were not injuriously affected by the acid. 
 
 I would advise the repeal of section 1 of chapter 37, and 
 the passage of the following : The matters of public record 
 in any office shall be entered or recorded on paper made of 
 linen rags and new cotton clippings, well sized with animal 
 sizing and well finished ; and in the selection of paper for 
 such records preference shall be given to such paper of 
 American manufacture, if it is marked in water line with 
 the word " record," and also with the name of the manu- 
 facturer. 
 
 The names of many of the paper manufacturers of this 
 State are sufficient guarantee that their paper, if marked as 
 required, is what it purports to be ; and, if the recording 
 
1891.] SENATE — No. 2. 137 
 
 officers will procure record paper of their manufacture, there 
 may be no fear of the permanency of the records, as far as 
 the paper is concerned. Especial care should be taken to 
 procure proper paper when it is purchased already bound, 
 as much worthless paper is in the market in that form. 
 
 I have received by mail, and in person during my visits to 
 the several towns, much complaint of the quality of the paper 
 and binding in the books furnished by the Commonwealth for 
 the use of the town clerks and assessors. Many of the 
 towns have at their own expense rebound the books, but 
 there is no remedy for the poor quality of the paper. The 
 Commonwealth should certainly set a good example in this 
 respect, if it intends to require strict compliance with the 
 law on the part of town officers. 
 
 Eecommendations . 
 
 The recommendations may be summarized as follows : — 
 
 That the laws in regard to city and town records be con- 
 sidered and revised, with a view of more clearly fixing the 
 question of their custody, and providing for improvement 
 in their condition. 
 
 That salaries be fixed by statute for town clerks ; the fees 
 to be paid to the towns ; the clerks to be elected for longer 
 terms, be made clerks of all boards but members of none, 
 and be required to have an office. 
 
 That the records of collectors be placed in possession of 
 the cities and towns. 
 
 That every retiring town officer be obliged to deliver, 
 under oath, to his successor in office, all town records and 
 property. 
 
 That hereafter upon the division of a town the records 
 shall remain in the town whose name they bear, and that 
 all records now in towns other than those bearing the name 
 in such records be returned to the parent town, provided 
 their safety is not endangered thereby. 
 
 That churches or religious societies which have ceased to 
 hold religious meetings for a term of years be declared 
 extinct. 
 
 That the records of the proprietors of the common and 
 
138 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. '91. 
 
 undivided lands be copied, and placed in the registries of 
 deeds in the district where the lands are situated. 
 
 That the registers of deeds be elected for the same term 
 for which registers of probate and clerks of the courts are 
 elected, — five years, — and that a new system of indexing 
 be established, to meet the needs of the several resristries. 
 
 That more security be provided for the records and files 
 in the registries of probate. 
 
 That the subjects of paper and ink for records receive the 
 attention which their importance warrants. 
 
 ROBERT T. SWAN, 
 
 Commissioner. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 R. 
 
 The TENDER, a Form of which is sent herewith, should be 
 marked on the cover "Tender for Ink," and addressed to "The 
 Controller of H.M. Stationery OfBce, Princes Street, Storey's 
 Gate, S.W." 
 
 H.M. STATIONERY OFFICE, 
 
 22nd August, 1889. 
 
 GENTLEMEN, 
 
 I have the honour to request that you will have the goodness to 
 acquaint me, before 12 o'clock noon, on Monday, the 23rd Sep- 
 tember next, with the prices at which 3'ou may be willing to supply 
 this Office with Ink and Ink Powders, at such periods, and in such 
 quantities, as may be required for use in the Public Service, from 
 the 1st January, 1890. 
 
 The probable quantities which may be required annually are 
 stated in the annexed Specification, but the quantities actually 
 ordered may be more or less in any degree, according to the 
 demands of the Public Offices. 
 
 Samples of the Jars to be used may be seen, and particulars in 
 regard to packing (when Ink is so ordered) will be given at the 
 Stationery Office, where such further information as may be 
 desired will be furnished. 
 
 Each description of Ink, &c., may be tendered for separately, 
 but all the items will not necessarily be given to one Contractor. 
 
 Each tender to be accompanied by 4 Imperial Quart .Jars of 
 each description of Ink, and by 12 of each of the Ink Powders 
 proposed to be supplied. 
 
 No Tender which has been accepted will be allowed to be with- 
 drawn or altered. 
 
 I am, 
 
 Your obedient Servant, 
 
 T. D. PIGOTT, 
 
 Controller. 
 
 R&S (43,585a) 100 7 — 89 
 
140 
 
 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan. 
 
 SPECIFICATION for the Supply of INK and INK 
 POWDERS to H.M. Stationery Offlce. 
 
 DESCEIPTIOK 
 
 Probable 
 Annual 
 Quantity 
 
 Rate per 
 dozen 
 
 AMOUNT 
 £ «. d. 
 
 BLACK WRITING INK. 
 
 600 
 
 20,000 
 
 2,500 
 
 600 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 To he made of Best Galls, Sulpliate of 
 Iron, and Gum. Tbe Sulphate of Iron not to 
 exceed in quantity one-tliird of the weight 
 of the Galls used, and the specific gravity of 
 the matured Ink not to exceed 1045° (dis- 
 tilled water being 1000°). 
 
 Gallons ] 
 
 2"^^*^ > Imperial 
 Pints '^ ^ 
 
 Half-Pints J 
 
 Total 
 
 
 
 
 BLACK COPYING INK. 
 
 1,800 
 200 
 100 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 To be made of the above materials, but 
 of a strength one fourth greater than the 
 Writing Inli, and with the addition of Sugar 
 or Glycerine. The specific gravity of the 
 matured Ink not to exceed 1085°. 
 
 Quarts ^ 
 
 Pints >- Imperial 
 
 Half-Pints j 
 
 Total 
 
 
 
 
 BLUE-BLACK WRITING INK. 
 
 5,500 
 
 1,000 
 
 150 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 To be made of finest Galls, Sulphate of 
 Iron, Gum, Indigo, and Sulphuric Acid. 
 The specific gravity of the Ink when ma- 
 tured not to exceed 1035°. 
 Quarts 1 
 Pints J- Imperial 
 Half-Pints J 
 
 Total 
 
 
 
 
 BLUE-BLACK COPYING INK. 
 
 400 
 
 1,000 
 
 50 
 
 
 
 
 
 To be made as the Blue-Black Writmg 
 Ink, but of a strength one fourth greater, 
 and with the addition of a sufficiency of 
 .^ugar or Glycerine. The specific gravity of 
 the Ink not to exceed 1075°. 
 
 Quarts "j 
 
 Pints >- Imperial 
 
 Half-Pints J 
 
 Total 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
1891.,] 
 
 SENATE — No. 2. 
 
 141 
 
 DESCRIPTION 
 
 Probable 
 Annual 
 Quantity 
 
 Rate per 
 dozen 
 
 AMOUNT 
 £ a. d. 
 
 RED WRITING INK. 
 
 1,000 
 7,500 
 1,300 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 The basis to be derived from Cochineal. 
 Quarts "k 
 Pints > Imperial 
 Half-Pints J 
 
 Total 
 
 
 
 
 BLUE WRITING INK. 
 
 1,300 
 100 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 The basis to be derived from Indigo. 
 Pints > 
 Half-Pints I Imperial 
 
 j Total 
 
 
 
 RED COPYING INK. 
 
 20 
 
 350 
 
 50 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 The basis to be derived from Cochineal, 
 but of a strength one-fourth greater than 
 the Red Writing Ink, and with the addition 
 of Sugar or Glycerine. 
 
 Quarts "| 
 
 Pints y Imperial 
 
 Half-Pints J 
 
 Total 
 
 
 
 
 BLACK WRITING INK POWDERS. 
 
 9,000 
 
 V'. 
 
 
 
 
 To be made of the same ingredients as 
 the Black Writing Ink, reduced to a pow- 
 der. The Sulphate of Iron to be dehydrated 
 before mixture with the Galls and Gum. 
 One powder to make one pint of ink. 
 
 
 
 
 BLACK COPYING INK POWDERS. 
 
 1,200 
 
 
 
 
 
 To be made as the Black Writing Ink 
 Powders, with the addition of a suflBclency 
 of Sugar. Three powders to make one pint 
 of Ink. 
 
 
 
 
 RED INK POWDERS. 
 
 3,500 
 
 
 
 
 
 The basis to be derived from Conhineal. 
 i One powda- to malxc one pint of Ink. 
 
 
 
 
142 REPORT ON PUBLIC RECORDS. [Jan.'Ol. 
 
 CONDITIONS. 
 
 The Ink to be delivered at the Stationery Office, or at such 
 other place in London as may be directed, and by the dates 
 specified on the orders. 
 
 Each Jar to bear a printed label to a pattern which may be seen 
 at the Stationery Office. 
 
 Should the quality of any delivery be found to be inferior, the 
 Controller will have power to reject it without appeal from his 
 decision. In the event of such rejection, or of the quantities 
 ordered not being delivered at the specified dates, the Controller 
 will have power to purchase elsewhere and to charge the excess of 
 price, if there be any, against the Contractor. 
 
 When Ink is ordered to be "packed" it will, before being 
 delivered at the Stationery Office, be securely placed into strong 
 casks, for which a reasonable price will be allowed. Any damage 
 caused by breakage in transit to the Country will be made good by 
 the Contractor. 
 
 The Contract will commence on 1st January, 1890, and, if 
 performed satisfactorily, will remain in force for one yeai' certain, 
 after which it may be terminated by the Contractor or the Con- 
 troller of the Stationery Office at three months' notice, in writing, 
 to be given at an}' time after the 30th September, 1890. 
 
 The person whose tender is accepted will be required to enter 
 into a deed of contract if called upon to do so by the Controller. 
 
 No member of the House of Commons shall be admitted to any 
 part or share of the Contract, or to any benefit to arise therefrom. 
 
 TENDER 
 
 do hereby agree and willing, to supply to Her Majesty's 
 
 Stationery Office, Westminster, Ink and Ink Powders, of such 
 descriptions, at such periods], and in such quantities, as may be 
 required for use in the Public Service after 1st January, 1890, at 
 the prices set against them in the foregoing Specification, and 
 subject to the foregoing Conditions. 
 
 Sir, 
 • Your obedient Servant 
 
 Name 
 
 EesidencB- 
 Date 
 
 To the Controller of 
 
 H.M. Stationery Ojficp, 
 
 Westminster. 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
 lllliiillillliilllll 
 
 018 371 483 1 •