J. L. Smith—Daubrée’s Experimental Geology. 389 
He observes: ‘‘ Whatever their origin and orbits, the 
meteorites that fall on our planet show us one of the great 
methods of change carried on in the universe, consisting in the 
distribution of the fragments, derived from the destruction of 
certain stars, planets or asteroids, among other suns and planets. 
Such occurrences are not accidental or exceptional phenomena, 
but facts under a law of the universe. In establishing a close 
relation between meteorites and the deep-seated rocks of our 
globe, we not only unravel remote phases in the history of our 
own globe, but establish the intimate relation that exists be- 
tween the different parts of the universe.” “It is thus that 
e, has an intimate relation 
to physical astronomy, for if it receives light, it also con- 
tributes light.” 
The second section of this part of Professor Daubrée’s work 
treats of the mechanical phenomena connected with meteorites. 
Under this head are included the globular structure which 
In the application of this part of the subject, Professor Dau- 
brée says: “Those meteorites, which have a fragmentary struc- 
ture and are very often polyhedral in form, exhibit on their 
surface the effects of the action of compressed and heated gases, 
the indentations affording evidence of a wearing action by air 
in a cyclonic movement.” When meteoric masses have been 
isolated from each other after entering the atmosphere their 
Incandescence ceases rack of a meteorite while thus 
Incandescent is often over one hundred and twenty-five miles, 
and takes several seconds. During this time, it certainly can- 
air may be supposed to reach 1000 atmospheres, and the bolides 
 peiatod in every direction in the midst of this 
Am. Jour. Sor1.—Tuirp x mame Vou. XIX, No. 113,—May, 1880, 
