Thus far I have applied myself to single fields only; but have employed a sufficient variety for the due understanding of all others, I will now proceed to the measuring of two or more lying contiguously to each other.

It has been observed *, that, in general, land-measurers take only such lines in the field as will enable them to construct an exact geometrical plot thereof; and, by the scale of equal parts †, take such other lines on the plot as will divide it into triangles, trapeziums, or other single figures, such as the case may require; and from thence calculate the content. They sometimes may, however, find it convenient (when only a few fields are to be measured) to take the measuring lines in the field; by which, also, the plan may be made.

EXAMPLE.

From the dimensions given in the following sketch, the contents of the fields A and B are required?

Field A,

620 + 290 × 1060

2

= 482300 = 4 acres

3 roods, 11 perches, for the measure of that field.

*Note, page 150.

† Scales of equal parts are of two kinds: the one having diagonal divisions, for accurately setting off single links, &c. ; the other made with feather edges, and having those edges divided into a series of 10 links; and sometimes both scales are graduated on the same piece of brass or ivory. (Fig. 9.)

16 perches, for the content of that field.

Examples for Practice.

2. From the dimensions given, required the respective contents of the fields C and D ?

3. From the following dimensions, a correct plan and content of the fields R and S are required?

B

AZ

I

4. The fields A, B, and C, are plotted by a scale of six chains to an inch; quere the content of each field?

5. The fields D, E, F, and G, are plotted by a six

chain scale; what are the respective contents of the said fields, the total content being 12 acres, 3 roods, 11 perches ?

6. The plan of a canal, and the quantity of land taken for the same through the three fields in the annexed plan, are required, from the dimensions given therewith; the towing-path and bank being of equal breadth with the top surface of the water. Scale 12 chains to an inch.