10 THE LAW OF STORMS. 



Its fluctuations are larger beyond the Tropics ; but the 

 indications are scarcely less certain if used in conjunc- 

 tion with the thermometer and hygrometer, — hence, 

 more watchfulness is required on the part of the navi- 

 gator ; and it is of the utmost importance to have such 

 a knowledge of the Law of Storms, of storm instru- 

 ments, and of the signs of the weather, as to be able 

 to detect the presence of a hurricane or cyclone, when 

 as yet sky and sea betoken but little of that blind fury, 

 during the height of which it is so difficult to guide the 

 vessel in safety. One great advantage of such knowl- 

 edge is a quick apprehension of the indications which 

 forewarn, to make all snug in time. 



The meteorological signs indicating the approach of a 

 hurricane or cyclone, have been collected from various 

 sources by Mr. Birt, and are enumerated and classed 

 according as the phenomena may be presented to the 

 external sensations of feeling, sight, or hearing. 



METEOROLOGICAL SIGNS RECOGNIZED BY THE 

 FEELINGS. 



1. A sultry, oppressive state of the atmosphere. 



2. A calm. 



METEOROLOGICAL SIGNS RECOGNIZED BY THE EYE. 



1. A remarkably clear state of the atmosphere, so 

 that the stars may be seen to rise and set with nearly 

 the same distinctness as the sun and moon. 



2. A peculiar white appearance in the zenith, more 

 or less of a circular form. 



3. A remarkably red or fiery appearance of the 



