The steps of the Pullman cars can only be a certain length, and must not
jut out beyond the sides of the car, otherwise they would be liable to
be torn off when the oar passes through tunnels or narrow places. It is
therefore impossible to have them built any longer than they are at
present. The new invention, however, adds a step without going beyond
the proper limit.
[Illustration: Car-step]
It is done in this way: The step is made of iron, and is joined to the
regular wooden steps by strong rods. When the train is in motion the
extra step folds under the car-step. When the train stops the porter
touches a lever, and down comes the extra step, making the descent from
the car as easy as walking downstairs.
It is a fine invention, and we hope soon to see it used on all Pullman
cars.
G.H.R.
BOOK REVIEWS.
There has just been published a collection of sketches and essays by
Charles Dickens which have hitherto been uncollected and none of which
has been reprinted in the United States.
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