‘Mineralogy and Geology of Nova Scotia. 267 
coming satisfied of the insufficiency of the Neptunian method to 
account for the phenomena observed in the North mountains, 
and the appearances assumed by the neighbouring strata, we were 
induced to allow the superiority of the igneous theory, as taught 
by Hutton, Playfair, and Daubeny. 
In treating of the South mountains we shall perceive the ne- 
cessity of an amalgamation of both theories, to explain the relations 
of that range to the North mountains. 
Partridge Island, situated near the village of Parsborough, and 
six miles from Cape Sharp, is the next place to be described. 
In crossing the Basin of Mines, after passing the majestic Blomi- 
don, this island is the first elevated object that meets the eye. It 
consists of amygdaloid and columnar trap, which, on its south- 
west side, presents a precipitous and overhanging front about two 
hundred and fifty feet high, rendering precarious the situation of 
those who may pass beneath its brow. Stationed near the verge 
of this precipice, the visitor beholds beneath him rugged, insulated 
towers rising abruptly from the sea almost to a level with his own 
standing, which, having withstood the frequent commotions of 
the sea that during the stormy winter months is thrown among 
them in the most frightful billows, yet remain as firm and immoy- 
able barriers to resist the force of these repeated attacks, and 
prevent the more rapid decay of the island. Their summits are 
crowned with a thin but luxuriant soil, from which spring up a 
few scattered hemlocks and a low underbrush, that nearly ob- 
scure the face of the rock, but at the same time furnish the sea 
bird a safe retreat beyond the reach of any invader. But at low 
water the visitor, in addition to the wildness and picturesque 
beauty of the scene, will find before him a field so richly stocked 
with interesting minerals, that he will delight to lirger on the 
spot and gather these objects of science. (See Plate III.) 
