Thoroughly wash and cleanse from color one part of gum shellac; when dry pulverize it well, reducing it in a mortar to an impalpable powder; mix with it four times its weight of spirits of wine; put the mixture on the fire, and let it remain until the gum is entirely dissolved. Strain the liquor, and keep for use in a well-corked bottle

Black Varnish for Metal, etc.

Fuse and thoroughly incorporate asphal turn, ¾ lb.; shellac, 2 oz.; turpentine, 1 quart. Lay on with a brush.