328 THE LIFE OF JAMES D. FORBES. [CHAP. 



just as I found in the Glacier de> Talefre. The first 

 appearance of structure is usually vertical, and the first 

 true ice is the mere result of the development of the 

 blue bands. It is probable, therefore, that the process of 

 glaciation consists in the pressure, and working or 

 kneading of the snow, in consequence of the differential 

 velocity of its parts/ 



In pursuance of his plans already stated, Forbes now 

 left Chamounix, and as the weather placed a decided 

 veto on his attempting, as he had wished to do, the then 

 unknown passage of the Glacier de Salena, he went to 

 Martigny by the Col de Balme, and established himself 

 for a few days at Bex, with MM. Charpentier and Studer. 



To MRS. FOKBES. 



1 SION, August 22nd. 



'. . . Yes, I have got to Sion to-day, and that too by the 

 pass of the Diablerets. It is a precious rule in travelling, 

 not to be too easily discouraged, and to risk somewhat ; 

 and accordingly to-day, although we lost the best part 

 of the ascent from Bex to the Col by thick wet fogs, on 

 the other side it was comparatively clear, and the descent 

 most interesting much more so than I had expected 

 and we had hardly a drop of rain. So I am well repaid 

 by finding myself well over the pass, and so far on my 

 way as Sion. ... I have got the home sickness very 

 bad, and dare scarcely think of the sweet pleasure of being 

 with you, lest it should make me quite miserable where 

 I am especially as I must spend to-morrow (Sunday) at 

 Sierre, to see what becomes of the weather, and once 

 there, how can I help thinking of the happy days we have 

 there spent together. I am sure it will make me very, 

 very sad. . . . But I do really think I shall be home 

 to you soon now, very soon : for if the weather continues 

 indifferent, I shall give up the Val d'Anniviers, and go 

 straight to the Grimsel/ 



The state of the weather, in fact, rendered this change 

 of plan imperative. He lingered for a day or two at the 



