Remai^ks on the Geology of Maine. 71 



if there was any, to have it noted and allowed for. When alti- 

 tudes are taken with all these precautions, we can rely upon 

 them with perfect confidence. The various tables will be pub- 

 lished in my report for this year. 



I was more especially desirous of learning the height of the ter- 

 tiary deposits in various parts of the state, since they will give 

 us the elevation formerly held by the ancient ocean which made 

 these fossiliferous deposits. I also wished to know the height of 

 the land for the purpose of making sections of the state in profile. 

 I have measured also the altitude of the most remarkable moun- 

 tains in the state. 



I have collected, to illustrate the geology of Maine, about sev- 

 enty large boxes of excellent specimens of rocks and minerals, all 

 of which, with their localities, were labeled on the spot, the mo- 

 ment they were taken, — each assistant being supplied with a 

 bottle of softened gum tragacanth and paper for the purpose. 

 There are abundant proofs collected, demonstrating the valuable 

 mineral resources of the state. Statistical information has also 

 been obtained, where it was possible, respecting the precise 

 amount of value received by the sale of quarry stones, lime, 

 marble, &c. 



I also examined into the geological origin, nature, distribution, 

 chemical composition, and capabilities of the various soils of the 

 state, and the information attained will form a chapter on agri- 

 cultural geology, — a most important subject, too generally neg- 

 lected, but one full of instruction. 



We have collected a great number of observations relating to 

 the interesting subject of diluvial transportation and diluvial fur- 

 rows. How much I should be delighted could any of those geol- 

 ogists in Europe, who feel sceptical on the subject, visit with me 

 the numerous and most decided proofs which are presented in 

 Maine, demonstrating the general direction and power of the dilu- 

 vial current. I think that no reasonable person would venture to 

 stand in opposition to the facts which we can present in illustra- 

 tion of this doctrine. T do most ardently wish, that Mr. liyell 

 and Dr. Boue, two excellent geologists, who do not feel disposed 

 to admit the results adduced by our very able friend. Prof. Hitch- 

 cock, and others, would come over to this country and see for 

 themselves, the most tangible proofs that were ever adduced. 



