by the slight forces
still in operation. We will therefore examine: 1. the pictorial
phenomena of the central peaks; 2. those of the summits of the lower
mountains round them, to which we shall find it convenient to give the
distinguishing name of crests; 3. the formation of Precipices, properly
so called; then, the general aspect of the Banks and Slopes, produced by
the action of water or of falling debris, on the sides or at the bases
of mountains; and finally, remove, if it may be, a few of the undeserved
scorns thrown upon our most familiar servants, Stones. To each of these
subjects we shall find it necessary to devote a distinct chapter.

FOOTNOTES

[52] It may be thought I should have reversed these sentences, and
written where the hills are low and safe, the climate is soft, &c.
But it is not so. No antecedent reason can be shown why the Mont
Cervin or Finsteraarhorn should not have risen sharp out of the
plains of Lombardy, instead of out of glaciers.

[53] I use the terms "pyramid" and "peak" at present, in order to
give a rough general idea of the aspect of these hills. Both terms,
as we shall see in the next chapter, are to be accepted under
limitation.

[54] This coarse sketch is merely given for reference, as I shall
often have to speak of the particular masses of mountain, indicated
by the letters in the outline below it; namely--

_b._ Aiguille Blaitiere. _p._ Aiguille du Plan.
_m._ Aiguille du Midi. M. Mont Blanc (summit).
_d._ Dome du Goute. _g._ Aiguille du Goute.
_q_ and _r_ indicate stations only. T. Tapia.
C. Montagne de la Cote. _t._ Montagne de Taconay.

[55] The glacier tracks on the gneiss of the great angle opposite
Martigny are the most magnificent I ever saw in the Alps; those
above the channel of the Trient, between Valorsine and the valley of
the Rhone, the most interesting.

[56] For farther information respecting the glaciers and their
probable action, the reader should consult the works of Professor
Forbes. I believe this theory of the formation of the upper peaks
has been proposed by him, and recently opposed by Mr. Sharpe, who
believes that the great bank spoken of in the text was originally a
sea-bottom. But I have simply stated in this chapter the results of
my own watchings of the Alps; for being without hope