ones continued to come into existence in parts where none were previously seen. The atmosphere was sharp and bracing, possessing a degree of transparency unknown in the lower latitudes, thereby rendering the tranquil worlds above us objects of ineffable beauty and loveliness.
"Your astronomers," I observed, "have natural advantages for contemplating the mysteries of the universe that ours cannot possibly enjoy."
"Yes, quite true," he replied; "but, on the other hand, your sages have a wider field for observation and experiment."
Here I took the opportunity to inform him that I was not a scientist, and that my knowledge of astronomy was confined to the art of being able to determine the latitude and longitude of any given place, and to this, perhaps, might be added a smattering of that all-absorbing science that I acquired through reading books at sea.
"I can understand that," he replied; "but you take an interest in this subject, and that fact alone would cause you to acquire a certain knowledge of it unconsciously and without effort. Further," he continued, "I have little doubt you have many learned men among your people who have never made a special study of this important branch of
