122 TRINIDAD. 



By comparing the figures of this table, it will be found that 

 the hour which exhibits the minimum temperature is 6 a.m., and 

 that which presents the maximum is 3 p.m. Now, although the 

 temperature is two degrees lower at 9 a.m. than at noon and 

 3 p.m., it may yet be affirmed that the heat is excessive from 

 that hour to 4 p.m. The above table shows also that the 

 increase is more gradual than the decrease of temperature — the 

 former being 5*67°, within six hours, viz., from 6 in the 

 morning to 12 noon; and the latter 4 '31° within three hours, 

 viz., from 3 to 6 p.m. The mean temperature, in the sun, may 

 be estimated at 124° Farenheit. 



The thermometer gives neither a fair indication of the 

 sensation felt by, nor of the impression made upon, the human 

 frame by a high temperature. They both depend greatly on 

 the rarefaction of the air and the hygrometric state of the 

 atmosphere ; so that the sensation of oppression, and the general 

 prostration caused by a high temperature, are increased by 

 sultry weather, and rendered more painful than when the air is 

 comparatively dry, pure, and agitated. The influence of winds 

 in connection with the temperature is very remarkable. The 

 northerly wind, even when light, being comparatively cold, 

 produces an unpleasant feeling of chill, whereas the easterly 

 breeze, however strong, never produces that sensation; on the 

 contrary, it is agreeable, cool, and refreshing, and may be said to 

 be bracing. 



The southerly wind has a depressing effect; still more so 

 the westerly. 



Humidity. — The influence of atmospheric moisture on 

 vegetable life is too well known to require any comment. 

 Its influence on our own organs is, perhaps, as powerful, 

 though less apparent. Temperature, atmospheric pressure, the 

 prevailing winds, and the condition of a country, whether as 

 cultivated or still covered with forests — all these greatly 

 influence the actual quantity of moisture contained in the 

 atmosphere. 



I am not in possession of such hygrometric observations 

 as would enable me to give any definite information on the 

 subject ; but the quantity of rain which falls throughout the 

 year may serve as a test for appreciating the humidity of 

 our climate. It will be seen, from the following returns, that 



