America--The magnetic equator--
Character of the storms which originate in the inter-tropical
belt indicate local magnetic action--Supposed influence of
volcanic action--Gulf Stream changes its position--This the
result of magnetic action--Alternating contrasts of heat and
cold, and rain and drought--Dr. Webster's history of the
weather--Spots upon the sun--Their character and influence--Cold
or warm periods during the same decade, and during different
decades--Connection between the spots and magnetic disturbances
and variations--Influence of the moon upon the weather--No
decisive inference to be drawn from these facts, and a more
critical examination necessary 204

CHAPTER IX.

Examination of existing theories--Calorific theory the prevailing
one--Lateral overflow of Professor Dove--Absurdity of his views
in relation to them--His theory of hurricanes--Its absurdity--A
new theory by Mr. Dobson--Three theories advanced by
meteorologists of this country--Professor Espy's theory--Mr.
Bassnett's theory--Mr. Redfield's theory--Extended examination of
the latter--His theory in relation to the fall of the barometer
contradictory in its character--Philosophy of the barometric
change--No aid to be derived from these theories 232

CHAPTER X.

Further inquiry in relation to the reciprocal action between the
earth and the counter-trade--Terrestrial magnetism, and what we
know of it--Its elements, and their variations--Their connection
with the variations of atmospheric condition--Magnetism acts
through its connection with electricity--Character of the latter
and its variations--Their connection with atmospheric conditions--
Electricity as well as magnetism in excess over this country--
Effects of it upon our climate--Closer consideration of the
atmospheric phenomena--Their diurnal changes and connections
compared with those of magnetism and electricity--Grouping of all
the diurnal variations--Particular and separate examination of
them--Classification of storms--Examination in detail of the
several classes and the primary influence of the earth or
counter-trade in relation to each 285

CHAPTER XI.

Prognostics 340

THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE WEATHER.

CHAPTER I.

Heat and moisture