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magnetic forces, provided that the Smithsonian Institution would furnish 

 one set of the instruments; and take charge of the direction of the obser- 

 vations, and of reducing and publishing them. In the survey of the min- 

 eral lands in the vicinity of lake Michigan under Dr. Jackson, Dr. Locke, 

 of Cincinnati, has been employed with his own apparatus; and to supply 

 the necessary instruments for the survey in Wisconsin, preliminary steps 

 have been taken to procure otlrer instruments from liOndon. 



Another subject of research mentioned in theprogranjme, and which has 

 been urged upon the immediate attention of the institution, is that of an ex- 

 tensive system of meteorological observations, particularly with reference 

 to the phenomena of American storms. Of late years, in our country, 

 more additions have been made to meteorology than to any other branch 

 of physical science. Several important generalizations have been arrived at, 

 and definite theories proposed, which now enable us to direct our attention, 

 with scientific precision, to such points of observation as cannot fail to 

 reward us with new and interesting results. It is proposed to organize a 

 system of observations which shall extend as far as possible over the 

 North American continent; and in order to this, it will be necessary to en- 

 gage the co-operation of the British government. I have accordingly ad- 

 dressed a letter on this subject to Lieutenant Colonel Sabine, corresponding 

 secretary of the Royal Society, who assures me that, as soon as the plan 

 is fully matured for this country, there will be no difficulty in establishing 

 a system of corresponding observations in the British provinces. I have also 

 addressed letters to several gentlemen distinguished for 'their attainments in 

 meteorology, asking for suggestions as to ihe plan of observation; and I beg 

 leave to refer the board to the accompanying report of Prof Loomis, of New 

 York University, and also to the comnnrnication Of Prof. Espy, received in 

 answer. (Appendix Nos. 2 and 3.) The former contains an exposition of 

 the advantages which may be derived from the study of meteorology, and 

 what has been 'done in this branch of science in this country, and what 

 -encouragement there is for the further prosecution of the same subject, 

 together with a general plan of operations. The present time appears to 

 be peculiarly auspicious for commencing an enterprise of the proposed 

 kind. The citizens of the United States are now scattered over every part 

 of the southern and western portion of North America, and the extended 

 lines of telegraph will furnish a ready means of warning the more northern 

 and eastern observers to be on the watch for the iirst appearojice of an 

 advancing storm. 



All which is respectfully submitted. 



JOSEPH HENRY, 



Secretary. 

 To the Regents of the Smithsonian Institution. 



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