On the fascinating Power of Snakes, 379 



tion. We had already remarked that they seemed all to be 

 on a level ; so that this observation indicates their common 

 altitude at that moment. When we reached the earth there 

 was no person near us to hold the balloon, and we were 

 obliged to suffer all the gas to escape in order to stop it. 

 J J ad we been able to foresee this disappointment, we should 

 not have been anxious to descend so soon. About half after 

 one we found ourselves in the department of Loiret, near 

 the village of Meriville, at the distance of about eighteen 

 leagues from Paris. 



We have not abandoned the design of rising to the height 

 of 6000 metres, and even higher if possible, that we may 

 continue our experiments on the compass at that elevation. 

 We shall immediately prepare for this expedition, which 

 will take place in the course of a few days, since the bal- 

 loon has not sustained the smallest damage. M. Guy- 

 L-ussac will ascend first; and if he thinks it necessary, I 

 will ascend alone in my turn to verify his observations. 

 When we have terminated our experiments on the compass, 

 we purpose undertaking several voyages together, to make 

 exact researches, if possible, in regard to the nature and 

 quantity of the electricity of the air at different heights, on 

 the variations of the hygrometer, and on the diminution of 

 heat as one removes from the earth, — all objects which 

 must be useful in the theory of refraction. 



We do not despair of being able also to observe angles, 

 in order to determine trigonometrically our position in the 

 heavens, which would give us some interesting ideas in re- 

 gard to the movement of the barometer as one ascends. The 

 motion of the balloon is so gentle that the nicest observa- 

 tions can be made in it ; and the experience of our first 

 journey, and in the use of our apparatus, will enable us in 

 the course of a short time to collect a great number of facts. 

 »Such are our present intentions, should we be so fortunate 

 as to find that the class consider our researches as of any 

 utility. 



LX1I. On the fascinating Power of Snakes, By John 

 Tqpus, A.M>* 

 Mil. Tili,och, 



As the fascination attributed to many kinds of animals, 

 particularly rattlesnakes, is a subject which has excited 

 much inquiry and speculation, I hope the following attempt 



* Communicated by the Author. 



Cc4 to 



