1887.] 41 [ Haupt. 
were constructed on the beach to deflect these currents. As 
the ends of these structures were nearly normal to the currents, 
they created eddies, were soon undermined and gradually 
swallowed up by the sea, so that at present but a short stub 
remains. Thus these auxiliary works prove but temporary 
and ineffectual. Money is continually being expended in futile 
attempts to oppose the onward march of the sea which declines 
either to be flanked or resisted by shore-protection works 
placed on the obstructing spit. By a change of base to the north 
spit, the interests of navigation would, doubtless, be as well sub- 
served and all the defensive works be rendered unnecessary. 
The proper site is indicated on the tracing by a star. 
The same conditions existed but a few years since at Abse- 
con Inlet, and they are continually recurring wherever the 
lights are on the spit opposed to the flood resultant. 
So far as permanency of location is concerned, it becomes a 
very simple matter therefore to select the proper site. The 
local interests of navigation may require it to be nearer the 
ebb channel. If, however, the flood or beach channel is im- 
proved by the form of breakwater proposed in this paper, the 
light may be placed on or just in rear of this structure, 
which from its form will not scour deep holes to undermine 
its flanks, as they do not cross the path of the flood or ebb 
normally, or even at a considerable angle, and thus the ability 
readily to locate a lighthouse where it will not be eroded, is 
another of the practical benefits resulting from this discovery. 
PROC. AMER. PHILOS. 800. xxv. 127. F. PRINTED FEB. 21, 1888. 
