206 SERPENTINE. 



tion, in an eminent degree. The shallowness of its 

 soil marks the difficulty with which it is converted 

 into earth ; and the formidable cliffs and rugged points 

 which it advances into the ocean, prove the efficacy 

 with which it opposes the powers that demolish the 

 neighbouring rocks and corrode the adjoining shores. 

 The association of Chromat of Iron with Serpentine 

 is a remarkable peculiarity in its mineral history ; but 

 it has not hitherto been found a repository of other 

 metallic veins. In the arts, it has been long known 

 as an ornamental substance ; and the value arising 

 from its beauty and variety, is enhanced by the facility 

 with which it is wrought and polished. As a building 

 stone, it deserves additional attention, from its strength 

 and indestructibility; though never yet sought after for 

 that purpose. Many varieties also resist the fire in a 

 remarkable degree; a circumstance also which should 

 render it a greater object of oeconomical attention than 

 it ever yet has been. 



