CHAP. 1. 9. OF CLOUDS. 27 



porated. Cumuli also are represented to be 

 dispersed, and their constituent particles to come 

 to the ground in the same manner.* According 

 to the same theory, it appears that the other 

 modifications are also the consequence of vapour 

 carried up into the atmosphere, while their pe- 

 culiarities are more immediately affected by the 

 agency of the electric fluid. 



The conclusion of M. Howard's theory, as it 

 is given in Rees's Cyclopedia, is so good, that I 

 shall adopt it as a termination to this section. 



" We shall conclude with a brief review of 

 the modifications ascending from the STRATUS, 

 formed by the condensation of vapour on its 

 escape from the surface to the CUMULUS, col- 

 lecting its water in the second stage of its ascent, 

 both probably existing by virtue of a positive 

 electricity. From these proceeding through 

 the partially conducting CUMULOSTRATUS to 

 the CIRROSTRATUS and CIRROCUMULUS ; the 

 latter positively charged, and considerably re- 

 tentive of its charge; the former less perfectly 

 insulated, and, perhaps, conducting horizontally: 



* Although the reason of their sinking may be the destruc- 

 tion of the vapour plane in the evening,, yet some other cause 

 must exist for the cumulus to disperse and fall in diffused 

 mist, or dew: see the next Chapter. 



