Ohaernnfions on the Occarrence of Anthracite. — Greslei/. 21 
such situations seem to be at present unknown, undescribed 
or comparatively insignificant — tiie exception rather than the 
rule. 
Thus it seems reasonable to suppose that wherever strata 
carrying coal-seams (no matter of what geologic age) were 
accumulated over regions of great thickness of older sedimen- 
tar}'^ rocks, or where conditions favored or ultimately led to 
subsidence, followed by extensive and prolonged elevation, 
where the coals underwent partial metamorphosis, they were 
thrust up, enormously reduced in bulk by denuding agencies; 
the reason why they generally now occupy or are principally 
confined to elevated situations (stratigraphically) is explained. 
If therefore extensive beds of anthracitie coal are not met 
with or do not exist in regions characterized by flat country 
and comparatively level strata,* the reason is because the 
Coal Measures are not in proximity to existing or extinct 
(eroded away) mountains, and do not overlie stratified rocks 
of excessive vertical thickness. Thus the origin of anthracite 
is connected with one of the greatest or most profound pro- 
blems in physical and dynamical geognosy. 
If there be anything to be gained practicdlli/ from this 
theory it is that it is of little use looking for anthracite ex- 
cept in regions where mountains exist or were once upon a 
time a feature of the topography as the uptilted and eroded 
strata may be evidence of. 
If my observations shalf lead others to make further and 
closer investigation in this connection, with a view of substan- 
tiating or refuting my hot water theory for anthracite, and 
other collateral conclusions, and assisting to get at and estab- 
lish the truth of the matter (so far as is permitted to us), 
the writer's aim will have been achieved. The elicitation of 
suggestions is respectfully invited and a wholesome criticism 
anticipated. 
*E. g. Northumberland, Durham, York., Nott.. Derbyshire, Ohio, 
Ind.. Mich., lU., &c. 
