The surface of the goods really was so, but owing to
the eventual decomposition of the goods beneath the surface, the
process was pronounced by the public a complete failure. Thus
instead of realizing the large fortune which by all acquainted
with his prospects was considered certain, his whole invention
would not bring him a week's living.
"He was obliged for the want of means to discontinue
manufacturing, and Mr. Hayward left his employment. The inventor
now applied himself alone, with unabated ardor and diligence, to
detect the cause of his misfortune and if possible to retrieve the
lost reputation of his invention. On one occasion he made some
experiments to ascertain the effect of heat upon the same compound
that had decomposed in the articles previously manufactured, and
was surprised to find that the specimen, being carelessly brought
in contact with a hot stove, charred like leather. He endeavored
to call the attention of his brother as well as some other
individuals who were present, and who were acquainted with the
manufacture of gum elastic, to this effect as remarkable and
unlike any before known, since gum elastic always melted when
exposed to a high degree of heat.
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