454 



UNITED STATES. 



distinction of currents is in some measure lost for 

 about half the distance of their irregular descent. 

 The streams there assume a new modification, and 

 arrive at the bottom by three principal channels. 

 Over these three streams there are many bridges, 

 affording to travellers the singular spectacle of be- 

 holding the roaring and foaming cataract beneath 

 them, at the very, place where they cross. From 

 the highest part of the largest of these, the distance 

 to the water beneath is about thirty «j[ive or forty 

 feet. 



The masses of limestone, which direct the courses 

 of the waters, and separate their currents, are dis- 

 posed in horizontal strata as regularly as if they had 

 been laid by a level. In several places they are ve- 

 ry abrupt, and terminate with the perpendicularity 

 of a wall. Between them are profound openings, 

 through vfhich the torrent forces its way. At the 

 bottom all the streams re-unite, and proceed in con- 

 junction toward Fort Edward. 



This cataract is uncommonly variegated and wild, 

 insomuch that it is impossible to give any tolerable 

 description of it. But all persons who have a taste 

 for grandeur and rudeness in natural scenery, are 

 highly delighted with the prospect which it affords. 



The central mass of limestone forms an island of 

 such height, as never to be overflowed entirely. A 

 pine tree is growing on the summit of it; and be- 

 tween this summit and the water level there are se- 

 veral long and large excavations in the rock, through 

 which spectators may pass, under natural arches, 

 ami obtain advantageous views of this noble work of 

 nature. From this insulated spot, too, can be seen 



