can scarcely pass: but, even these are limited to the sur- 

 face; and, probably, the effect of contraction, and dila- 

 tation, from the variation of temperature, in our atmo- 

 sphere. For, as we quarry farther in, the mass soon be- 

 comes solid: even the surface itself is frequently without 

 the slightest intervals between the prisms or pillars. I 

 refer the naturalist to two points, where he can easily get 

 access to the foot of the precipice; the S. E. point of 

 Portmoon, and Grace Staple's Cave, at Carrickarade : in 

 both- places, the fapade is neatly columnar and prismatic, 

 and also completely solid. 



As this want of intervals establishes, both the inade- 

 quacy of the causes, which Mr. Desmarest assigns, with 

 so mvich confidence; and, also, proves his oAvn total igno- 

 rance of basalt, in its natural state: I will mention two 

 facts more, which must put this point past a doubt. 



The first; that a fall of 200 feet has not been able to 

 separate the prisms, composing the prismatic masses, 

 which have fallen down the vast perpendicular precipice 

 at Fair-head. 



The second; that the hollows, on the surface of the 

 Giant's Causeway, are as staunch as a bason, and hold 

 the water, that collects on them, from rain, or the spray, 

 until it evaporates; whereas, it would soon find a passage, 

 through Mr. Desmarest's intervals, if such existed. 



Though this gentleman has given us opportunities enough, 

 of discovering his ignorance of a subject, upon which he 

 has brought so much attention; I will trouble the reader 

 but with one instance more. 



He 



