[M2.9backL]                                                           [M2.9back]									9
                                                                      
                                                                      		to be thrown in the lines w. w. while by the introduction
                                                                      		of the upper stone, such pressures are equalized
                                                                      		over the upper surface of the bevelled one beneath.
                                                                      		While therefore the forms d2 d6 and a2 a5 are both
                                                                      		alike unsafe, the unison if the two headstones as in a3
                                                                      		is, as for as {is} possible secure;  and this is the best
                                                                      		possible general profile of a shaft head:  (first idea)
                                                                      		better than gen p.) being however susceptible of an infinite
                                                                      		variety of relation between the thickness of the
                                                                      		upper and lower stones, and of degrees in the angle of
                                                                      		the slope of the latter;  presently to be
                                                                      		considered.
                                                                      		Evidently the strength and convenience of the general
                                                                      		form remains the same whether it be composed of two stones,
                                                                      		or cut out of one block;  But the two members are always
                                                                      		to be considered as distinct;  the upper one is called
                                                                      		the Abacus:  The lower the Bell:  and the two together
                                                                      		form what is called the Capital of the pier or pillar;
                                                                      		When either exist separately as in some imperfect
                                                                      		architecture. the term Capital will of course attach to
                                                                      		either of them;  but in a perfect capital there must be
                                                                      		both.
                                                                      		Next, as regards the base of the shaft:  Whatever
                                                                      		the foundation of the building, it will evidently be right
                                                                      		that each pier or pillar should be, allowed to rest, {if
                                                                      		possible} upon a single stone;  in order that its weight

[Version 0.05: May 2008]