By pushing the lamp toward the wall, the wick is brought into proximity with the spiral, and the lamp, acting on a button behind it, closes the current. Pressure on the lamp being removed, the latter moves back slightly, through the pressure of a small spring which thrusts on the button. Owing to this latter simple arrangement, the spiral never comes in contact with the flame, and may thus last for a long time. Mr. Loiseau, the proprietor of this apparatus, employs a very fine platinum wire, flattened into the form of a ribbon, and it takes only the current from a single element to effect the inflammation of the wick. The system is so arranged that any one can easily replace in a moment the spiral that has accidentally got out of order; and, in order that this may be done, the maker has placed the spiral on a small, distinct piece that he styles the "conflagrator." The latter consists of two small, thin tubes of brass, held parallel and firmly by means of a brass cross-piece. A small bit of paper wound round each tube in front of the cross-brace insures insulation.

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