The Knickerbocker, or New-York Monthly Magazine, March 1844: Volume 23, Number 3Various
Philosophy
The Knickerbocker, or New-York Monthly Magazine, March 1844: Volume 23, Number 3
Various
Periodicals
snow-capped summit of Mounadoa. This mountain is in full sight at Hilo,
and about thirty miles distant. Since we have been here it has been the
scene of the most wonderful volcanic eruptions ever yet seen on this
island. Mr. P----, in company with Mr. C----, visited it a week or two
since, and ascended the mountain to the old crater, from whence the flood
of lava proceeded. Fire has not been seen in it within the remembrance of
the oldest natives. An immense river of burning lava is at this time
running down the side of the mountain, in a subterraneous channel, from
three to four miles wide. They had a good view of it through air-holes in
the lava, over which they were walking, which was like a sea of glass;
frequently sinking in different places in consequence of the intense heat
below. It will probably yet find its way to the surface somewhere, and,
laying prostrate every thing that opposes it, pursue its devastating
course to the sea. Truly we live in a world of wonders!' . . . BY the by,
speaking of volcanos: it will be remembered that in 1831 an island was
thrown up by volcanic eruption in the Mediterranean sea, off the south
coast of Sicily. It presented the form of a round hill, about one hundred
and twenty feet above the sea's level, with thick clouds of white smoke
issuing from it. As may well be imagined, it excited great wonder and
curiosity, and was visited by vast numbers of people. An Austrian, a
French and a British vessel met there at the same time. A dispute arose as
to what power the island should belong, what it should be named, etc.;
when a British sailor leaped on shore, and planted on the topmost peak the
union-jack. Nine cheers proclaimed Britannia victorious. On returning
shortly after, to take another look at their newly-acquired possession,
they found to their dismay that, like Aladdin's palace, the island had
disappeared, leaving the Mediterranean as smooth as if the magic wonder
had never reared its head! This circumstance suggested the following lines
by a correspondent:
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