THE WEATHER. 657 



A backing wind that is, a wind going in a direction opposed to the 

 sun's course (and with the earth) is a bad sign after unsettled weather. The 

 wind is said to " veer " when it goes with the sun. 



The south-east wind, with clear sky, warm weather, and low clouds on 

 the horizon, is a sign of wet. A dry east wind means fine weather. Heavy 

 clouds in the north-west generally bring a thunderstorm. When really 

 distant objects look very near rain must be expected. 



There are many exceptions to weather rules, and none can be laid down 

 as invariable. The ever-changing currents of air, and varying moisture of 

 the atmosphere, give rise to barometric changes, which should be carefully 

 noted. A little experience and close observation for one year, with notes of 

 signs, and indications of temperature, will assist any one to tell the probable 

 change that is approaching. 



There are a great number of signs of weather which are observable 

 in the animal and even in the vegetable kingdom, as well as in the moon 

 and stars. Many flowers close their petals before rain conies on, and the 

 behaviour of domestic animals often foretells storm. Sheep huddling 

 together in a corner tell us the direction from which the tempest is approach- 

 ing ; sea birds fly to shore, and land. birds become restless. 



The naturalist will observe the domestic animals which become 

 uncomfortable and sniff the air ; the cat lies with her head down, the brain 

 lowest ; and frequently washes her face, or scampers about aimlessly. 

 Spiders disappear, and worms come up to seek the expected water. When 

 fine weather is coming all nature appears glad, but leeches sink into -the 

 water as far as they can. 



The above are some of the domestic and common signs of coming 

 rain, and conversely for fine weather. A wailing wind, a cloudy mountain, 

 a greenish rainbow or too red a one, a pale moon with indistinct points, 

 or a halo round it, are all signs of rain and possibly wind. So the most 

 superficial observer may with these few suggestions inform himself of the 

 chances of fine or wet weather. 



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