CHAPTER VII.
THE HYMN OF THE CANNON-BALL.
The Cambridge Observatory had, in its memorable letter of October 7th, treated the question from an astronomical point of view--the mechanical point had still to be treated.

It was then that the practical difficulties would have seemed insurmountable to any other country but America; but there they were looked upon as play.
President Barbicane had, without losing any time, nominated a working committee in the heart of the Gun Club.

This committee was in three sittings to elucidate the three great questions of the cannon, the projectile, and the powder.

It was composed of four members very learned upon these matters.

Barbicane had the casting vote, and with him were associated General Morgan, Major Elphinstone, and, lastly, the inevitable J.T.Maston, to whom were confided the functions of secretary.
On the 8th of October the committee met at President Barbicane's house, No.