strength, and to vary their direction with similar or even greater regularity. Quite lately, been sought to establish a lunar theory of earth-currents, and to show that their behaviour stands in close correspondence with the periods of the lunar ocean tides. Barometric tides of this nature, as a result of the Moon's dynamical influence on the atmosphere, have been detected at places near to the equator; and it is possible that these atmospheric movements have something to do, not only with variations of the earth-currents, but also with the lunar inequalities of the magnetic force to which reference has been made above.
Lastly, the association of earthquakes with earth-currents has been satisfactorily demonstrated. A little consideration of these wonderful links, connecting so many forms of energy, is surely calculated to stimulate all who are disposed to encourage and aid physical research. Every bit of work well done, no matter how small, is a stone added to the edifice of exact knowledge by means of which scientific men are attacking and gradually elucidating those great physical problems, and working out results which, however dim or even unintelligible they may seem now, are more than likely to prove of the highest practical value in the future.
Hongkong. 17th July, 1881.
H. S. PALMER, Major, R.E., and F.R.A.S.
Minute.
Astronomer Royal.
Mr. ...
Mr. Wingfield.
Mr. Bramston.
Mr. Mende.
Mr. Herbert.
Mr. Courtney.
Lord Kimberley.
19th ...
...
Copy for ... on 13220
for:
19440
...
$21 hov: 89.
Sam ... dedicately,
the ... toff. for the
Colonies to transmit to you the accompanying copy of a report drawn up by Major Palmer R.E., with reference to the proposed Establishment of an Observing ...
and to state that ...
His Lordship would ...