By W. H. HUDLESTON, Esq., M.A., F.R.S., F.G.S. 



(Bead August Gth, 1902. ) 



THE Siihject of Grading. — In discussing problems 

 relative to beach action, it should be borne in 

 mind that the results produced by tidal currents 

 are by no means commensurate with those 

 produced by the wind-wave, especially above low 

 water mark. This last- is the prime factor in the 

 movement of shingle, and its effects may be 

 noticed in any part of the shores of the English Channel where 

 shingle is accumulated. Hence there is nothing exceptional in 

 the action of the wind-wave on the Chesil Beach, which there 

 follows a law which is all but universal in its application. But 

 you want to know why the wind-wave should accumulate the 

 larger stones at the Portland end and the smaller stones at the 

 Abbotsbury end. Before attempting to answer this question it 

 may be as well once more to fall back upon facts, admitted by 

 all but those who are hopelessly wedded to some abstract theory. 

 The leading fact of all is that the balance of movement of the 

 shingle is in an easterly direction ; that is to say, ioivards 



