Child. For the first few thousand years it would seem that the Earth was subjected to occasional violent catastrophes, both by fire and water. In these catastrophes great mountain chains were sometimes flung up; at other times the waters swept over the tops of the hills, and the shells of sea creatures may be found there to this day.
Preceptor. Have these catastrophes ceased?
Child. They have become less violent in their nature, though the recent Earthquake and Wave at Lisbon and the Eruption of Mount Hecla in Iceland attest their continued activity.
Preceptor. What is the Aerial Element?
Child. It is that elastic fluid with which the Earth is surrounded. It is generally called Air. It partakes of all the motions of the earth.
Preceptor. What is the cause of the Wind?
Child. The cause of the Wind has never been ascertained.
Preceptor. Then are the Winds of no benefit to us?
Child. Yes, the benefits arising from them are innumerable: they dry the damp, they chase vile humours, they bring us the rain in due season, and waft our ships from every corner of the Earth.
Preceptor. What is the Aqueous element?