Some operators use prepared cotton, and think it more convenient
than the flannel. This may be had prepared free from seeds
and in a very perfect state, if wished.

In going over the plate, great care should be observed, in touching
its surface as equally as possible. The greatest care should be
taken neither to touch the plate with the fingers, nor that part
of the cotton flannel which is to come in contact with its surface;
take a clean piece of flannel by one corner, snap it smartly
to free it from dust and loose fibres, lay it face-side upward,
dust on a little fine rotten stone; with this, polish around,
or across, or in circles, lightly and briskly, passing gradually
over the whole surface of the plate, as was done before with the wet.
The plate should now exhibit a bright, clear, uniform surface,
with a strong metallic lustre, perfectly free from any appearance of film;
if not, the last polished should be continued until the effect
is obtained, and when once obtained, the plate is ready for buffing.

Buffing the Plate.--There are a variety of ways and means employed
in this part of the operation. Some choose wheels, and others
prefer the ordinary hand-buff. I have been unable to detect any
peculiar advantage in the use of the wheel except in the facility
of the operation; no doubt, however, but there is a saving
of time, particularly in the preparation of the larger plates.
For general use, we have not seen a wheel better adapted for this
purpose than the one patented by Messrs. Lewis.

It is generally well to use a hand-buff before placing the plate
on the wheel; this is in order to prevent, as far as possible,