4 
100 §=Geology and Topography of Western New York. 
plate them acting in concert with the river current, we cease to 
wonder that the chasm should have attained its present length 
and depth, and that the cataract should occupy a place at the dis- 
tance of seven miles above its apparent natural position. 
How much is due to each agent separately, can hardly be de-. 
termined. We must bear in mind, however, that the fall was 
nothing ‘at first ; that as the elevation advanced, the river became 
‘more rapid; that finally, when the limestone was cut through 
and somewhat undermined by the disintegration of the shale be- 
low, and not tillthen, a distinct cataract could have been produ- 
ced. Until then, the tides and dashing of the surf were probably: 
most efficient in ing up the strata from their rocky beds, and 
comminuting the fragments; while the river would guide the 
oul vit "Op rations, and: remove the detrital matter from 
its bed. ae é 
“What distance the cataract has receded since that time, is a 
problem equally difficult to solve; but there are some indications 
which will enable us to applosiniate to the truth.. The rapids 
above the cataract, and the whirlpool below, are points where 
phenomena exist incompatible with the common theory. If it 
should be established, that the conformation of the whirlpool is 
such, that it could not have resulted on the theory of recession, 
this “endless saw” must relinquish its claim to four long miles of 
excavation for which it has received ecredit.. And if the rapids 
above the cataract existed prior to its.present location, we may 
presume that they are but the upper extremity of an ancient in- 
clined plane, or rather, succession of oe which existed before 
the limestone strata were cut through. . 
Goat Island is situated on the brink of the precipice, and di- 
vides the water into two unequal sheets. It is based on the lime- 
stone ledges which form the rapids, and the highest part of its~ 
surface is on a level with the river above their commencement. 
Near the upper extremity of the island, the rocky bed rises just 
sufficiently above the surface of the river to divide the stream, 
- and deflect the branches somewhat from the original course’ 
nt. It is to this eireumstance alone that the island owes 
istence ; for its lower extremity is covered with a tertiary 
sit of gravel and clay, which can offer no adequate _resist- 
the boisterous current, which seems anxious and ready 
cep the whole island into the gulf, below. 
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