APPENDIX. 223 



ing the entrance of this Cave ; the wonderful succession of 

 domes, — many of which are viewed from the base ; the 

 endless variety of stalactite and stalagmite formations, all 

 contribute toward rendering a visit peculiarly attractive 

 and interesting. Some even go so far as to say that there 

 is not another Cave on this continent in which there is 

 such a magnificent display of the chemical and mechan- 

 ical action of water. The gypsum formations, such as 

 rosettes, fibers, etc., are not less attractive. Dr. Wright 

 tells us that the largest dome to be found in any Cave is 

 to be found in Proctor's Cave. "It is at least three 

 times as wide and long as Mammoth Dome in Mammoth 

 Cave, and not less than one hundred and forty feet in 

 height. The Curtain Dome is not less wonderful. Vast 

 sheets of stalactite, yards in length and less than an inch 

 in thickness, are arranged in the form of curtains, scrolls, 

 etc. in endless variety." 



Mammoth Cave is deficient only in stalactite forma- 

 tions. A visit to Proctor's and Diamond Caves renders 

 cave-knowledge and experience complete. 



About three miles of this cave is now open to the 

 public, through the greater part of which there is a sub- 

 stantial plank walk. 



In a recent letter from Mr. Proctor to the author, he 

 remarks, in speaking of this Cave, "I am constantly 

 making new discoveries in this Cave; among others a 

 large river, as yet inaccessible to visitors, and many 



