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CRYSTAL OR SPONGE GOLD. 175

crystal gold that is introduced into the cavity, will
attach to the walls of a cavity without any such special
retaining points : such a form should be given, however,
as to secure the first piece firmly in place. The gold
should be cut or broken into pieces corresponding in
size to the cavity, so that they will enter freely
into it.
The filling may be commenced upon the bottom of
the cavity, or upon one of its sides ; such a point

always being selected as will most effectually retain
the gold in place. The pluggers should be of various
sizes—the first one as large as can be used in
the cavity, and smaller ones for condensing more
thoroughly; and all should be serrated with from two
to six sharp points, usually four. The blocks may be

taken up on the point of the plugger, or perhaps bet-
ter with the pliers, and passed to the proper position
in the cavity, and there condensed. The sharp, ser-
rated point leaves the surface in good condition for
the reception of the next piece. The gold should be
packed to the walls of the cavity a little in advance
of the center, so that its adaptation may be more
complete. In this manner, the filling is built up as
much as is desirable, if it is kept dry—and unless

it is, cohesion is very much diminished, or lost
altogether.
The gold, after it is cut up, is passed through the