The American Journal of Science and Arts (Volume 26) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1834. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... Art. I.--Ascent of Mount Etna, February, 1832; by Sidney L. Johnson, late tutor in Yale College, and teacher in the U. States squadron, in the Mediterranean. A wish to ascend Mt. Etna, was at first, the chief motive of our visit to Catania, but before departure, our hopes of reaching the summit were somewhat diminished. Since the snow fell, several parties had attempted it, but all without success. We often gazed upon it from our ships in the harbor of Syracuse, where it presented the singular appearance of a perfect cone of snow of astounding size, to whose dazzling whiteness the vertex tipped with black and tufted with a graceful plume of smoke, afforded the only relief. From the more commanding heights of Epipols, we could trace the sides lower down; the skirts of the snow were dappled with the naked patches of dark rock, then disappeared and the broad green base presented a cheerful contrast to the cold and glittering summit. On our approach and entrance to Catania, the mountain was entirely veiled from view by clouds and the rain descended in torrents. Had this weather continued a little longer than it did, we might have departed without ocular proof of the existence of elevated ground in that vicinity. But after two or three days, a delightful change inspired us with strong hopes of accomplishing our desires, and we determined upon an immediate attempt. Our arrangements were made for riding up as far as Nicolosi, on the 22d. of February. Abbale, our landlord had provided every necessary refreshment; and with a due supply of extra clothing, we mounted and were in motion by 4 P. M. Our party consisted of four, and was guided to the resting place for the night by out humorous and obliging host. A few steps brought us from the hotel in the Corso, to t...