It may be proper to state, that during the flood, no ice, except a few loose masses, was carried over, or near the spot where the disruption appears. This, therefore, could not have produced it.
Disruption of the Ground by Frost.
N. & S. S. Jocelyn Sc. N.H.
Fig. 1. is a transverse section, taken with a theodolite, from Deerfield river 28 rods south, crossing the longer axis of the disruption at right angles. The scale is 4 rods to an inch, although in laying off the heights and levels, the exact proportion was a little varied, to render the irregularities of surface more distinct. The letters of reference correspond to those on fig. 2, and need no explanation.
Fig. 2. is a bird's-eye view of the disruption and the adjoining region, very obligingly sketched by Mr. Derick Barnard of Troy, New-York. The surrounding country is somewhat contracted to bring more of it into view.
These are all the facts I am able at present to collect concerning this phenomenon. I have been particular as to the temperature of the air, and the situation of the adjacent country, from an idea that frost was a principal agent in producing it; and that, therefore, these circumstances would be important in fixing a theory. I will not, however, hazard any hypothesis on the subject; but if you deem the fact of sufficient importance, your opinion, Sir, is respectfully solicited.
Your humble Servant,
EDWARD HITCHCOCK.
Deerfield, Mass. March 26th, 1818.