Astronomy and Meteorology. 149 
Remarks upon Periodic Meteors—First, It is not alone by their 
numbers and their relation to a radiant that periodic meteors may be 
recognized in that character. This will be readily admitted, it is be- 
lieved, by every one who observed attentively the great display of 1833. 
The conformable meteors of November an ugust are distinguished 
bustion rains or luminous envelopes are mor ess a characteristic 
both, but predominate greatly in the periodic assemblages. e 
unconformable mete and those of ordinary nights, I have noticed 
“s°—estimating that average by a general recollection and consideration 
nly —not to exceed half a second of time. My own practice is to time 
ng flights, not while in progress, but immediately after,—in other words 
5, Shooting Stars of January 1st-3d. (In a letter from Srittman Mas- 
beet Esq., to the Editors, dated Weld, Franklin Co., Maine, Jan. 5, 
863) is known that the Ist-3d of January has been assumed with 
Some Probability as the date of an annual periodic visitation of shooting 
brill The night of the first instant was very clear at this place, but the 
coo ney of the moonlight, excepting for a short interval before daylight 
hen orting, together with the coldness of the atmosphere, rendering it 
Comfortable being out in the open air for any considerable time, made 
owe unfavorable for observing for meteors. I observed only as fol- 
