Notes

Abstract

ONE of the most transcendent sights that it is given to man to witness is due next week. Those who saw the “falling stars” of 1866 readily acknowledge that there is no other phenomenon which is equal to it in majesty and enthralling beauty; and although comparisons are always odious, and generally misleading, some have held that the 1866 display was far more striking than a total eclipse of the sun. It is to be hoped, therefore, that the sky will be clear during the early mornings of next week. It appears from a communication of Messrs. Johnstone Stoney and Downing, which appears in another column, that it is not yet known whether the densest part of the meteors will be encountered on the morning of the 15th or during the next night. It is to be regretted that bright moonlight will certainly prevent the shower from being seen with the same effect as in 1866, ir it should happen before the morning hours.