ain to an ascending column
of air, rarefied by heat, and the rarefaction increased by the latent heat
of vapor given out during condensation, and an inward tendency of the air,
from all directions, toward the ascending vortex, constituting the
prevailing winds. Thus, Professor Espy conceived, and to some extent
proved, that the wind blew inward, from all sides, toward the center of a
storm, either as a circle, or having a long central line, and he conceived
that it ascended in the middle, and spread out above; and that clouds,
rain, hail, and snow, were formed by condensation consequent upon the
expansion and cooling of the atmosphere, as it attained an increased
elevation.

_This ascent_ was not, in fact, _proved_ by Professor Espy, _has not been
found by others_, and _is not discoverable, according to my observations_.
The theory was ingenious, founded on the theory of Dalton, that the vapor
was maintained in the atmosphere by reason of a large quantity of latent
heat, which was given out when condensation took place. This theory is
also unsound. No such elevation of temperature is found in clouds or fogs
when they form near the earth, however dense. Thus the two principal
elements of Professor Espy's theory are found to be untrue, and the theory
untenable. But it was sustained with great ability and research, and the
distinguished theorist deserves much for the discovery and record of
important facts in relation to the weather. Aside from its theoretical
views, his book contains a great mass of valuable information, and will
well repay the cost of purchase and perusal.

Another theory, by Mr. Bassnett, is of recent date, founded on the
influence of the moon, and the supposed creation of vortices in the ether
above, whose influence extends to the earth, producing storms and other
phenomena. No one can peruse his book without conceding to him great
ability and scientific attainment; and if his theory was true, the periods
of fair and foul weather could be calculated with great mathematical
certainty. But it contains inherent and insuperable objections. I will
only add that all herein before contained is in direct opposition to it.

Mr. W. C. Redfield, of New York, as early as 1831, first advanced in this
country the theory of gyration in storms, and investigated their lines of
progress on our coast and continent. His theory is limited in its
character, and does not profess, except indirectly, to explain all, or
indee