Important to understand the precise character of the reciprocal action between the earth and the counter-trade--Connection between the width and movements of the belt of inter-tropical rains and the volume of the trades--Its peculiarities over Africa, the Atlantic, and South 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.