CHAPTER VIII.. Important to Understand the Precise Character of the Reciprocal

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