120 ' Appendix. 



also, seem to be distributed through tlie mass. After ignition, 

 the substance turns reddish brown, this color probably being due 

 to ferric oxide. The organic matter is burnt off, and with the 

 cxceptjon of the fibrous material, it presents about the same 

 appearance as before. 



A qualitative analysis shows the presence of silica, iron, 

 ime, manganese, and slight traces of sulphur. Quantitatively, 

 the sediment from Saugatuck gives 14.7 per cent, of carbonaceous 

 matter and moisture, leaving a residue of 85.3 per cent., — 9.9 

 Ytx cent, of which is soluble in acids, and 75.4 per cent, insol- 

 uble. The soluble portion consists mainly of iron, the other 

 elements existing in very small traces. 



The analysis of the sediment from Holland yields a very 

 similar result, it consisting of 16 per cent, of carbonaceous mat- 

 ter and moisture, leaving a residue, 9 per cent, of which is soluble 

 in acids, and 75 per cent, insoluble. 



The specific gravity of the two specimens is very nearly the 

 same; one being 2.063, and the other a trifle less — the diminu- 

 tion in specific gravity of the latter (that from Saugatuck) being 

 easily attributable to a slight accident in manipulation. 



It is very evident that in presenting all the circumstances 

 and facts which can in any way bear upon the case, that the 

 meteorological condition of the atmosphere, the direction and 

 velocity of the wind, and perhaps the condition of the surface, 

 as to previous falls of snow, all play an important part in its 

 consideration. 



The meteorological observations and reports taken and re- 

 ceived at any of the numerous signal stations, certainly furnish 

 all that could be desired on this point. These reports taken at 

 Detroit for Feb. 5th, at 7:11 a. m., and at 4:11 and 10:30 p. M., 

 Detroit time, have been obtained through the kindness of the 

 signal sergeant at Detroit. From what has been said in regard 

 to the state of the wind at Holland and Saugatuck, it being ac- 

 cording both to the informants and to the weather reports from 

 W. S. W., it is very evident that whether we consider the 

 material under consideration, whatever it may be, to have been 



