METEORIC DUSTS, N.S.W. 285 



suggests that this metallic layer was probably due to the 

 reduction of an iron salt by organic matter. 



The presence of a nucleus of silica or other non-metallic 

 matter in the spherules regarded as of cosmic origin has not 

 been recorded; further the meteoric spherules show traces 

 of fusion, hence I think the Canadian spherules are quite 

 distinct. 



Finally, although there appears to be no doubt, whatever, 

 that there is a constant gentle rain of meteoric dust fall- 

 ing upon the earth's surface, and at times it is probably 

 greater than at others, especially after the periodic meteor 

 displays, the evidence certainly does not show that the 

 dust storms, dust, haze, red rain, mud showers, etc., are 

 due to any unusual descent of meteoric matter, hence it 

 is a misnomer to call, the deposits from such "meteoric 

 dust." 



Note. — Certain minor additions have been made to this 

 paper during its passage through the press. — A.L. 



