254 Notes on the Recent Earthquakes [No. 123. 



indicated by it. This, however, would not give even the comparative 

 measure exactly, because a difference in the velocity of the rising or 

 fallins: of the earth's surface would affect the instrument." 



Were observers always to employ vessels of the same dimensions, as 

 for instance hemispherical cups of earthern-ware, painted white interiorly, 

 having a diameter of ten and a depth of five inches fixed on a standard 

 a foot in height, and filled for two inches of their depth by a fluid as 

 nearly as possible of the same tenacity as treacle, the observations made 

 at different points would be comparable with each other, and it would 

 perhaps be a simpler method of estimating the intensity of the shock, 

 than either of those proposed by Professor Babbage, were a graduated 

 semi-circular arc to be fitted inside the cup, and the difference between 

 the highest and lowest points of the wave caused by the shock, to be 

 observed from it. This difference would be in a certain degree propor- 

 tional to the intensity, being greater, as it was greater and less as it was 

 less ; and although it would after all be but a rough approximation, still 

 it would be interesting, and worthy of remrak. 



The discussion of all local observations ought to be undertaken by 

 one person, who by combining them properly, would be able to deduce 

 general results of the highest interest. It may be long ere we can 

 find any means of protection against the appalling, and apparently 

 irresistible effects of such convulsion as Earthquakes, but if observation 

 confirms the idea of their connection with a certain geological struc- 

 ture of country, we shall at least be able to point out where danger is 

 to be peculiarly apprehended, and by avoiding such localities, diminish 

 the fearful records of death and suffering, by which the occurrence of 

 Earthquakes has hitherto been accompanied. 



It will afford the writer the highest satisfaction to be furnished with 

 detailed accounts of Earthquake shocks, in whatever part of India they 

 may occur ; and in any cases in which the expence of Postage may be a 

 consideration to observers, he begs they will have no hesitation in forward- 

 ing their remarks to him "bearing."* The subject is one of deep 

 interest and importance, and the cooperation of observers in all parts 



* Communications on the subject of Earthquakes may be addressed to the author at 

 Saharunpore, Upper India, or if preferred, he has no doubt the pages of this Journal 

 will be cheerfully opened to them. 



Most unquestionably. Any number of copies of any such paper will be printed and 

 stitched as a pamphlet for (gratis) distribution, and distributed as required, or sent to 

 the author. .-r. 





