The danger is soon forgotten, the need of
cultivation of the ground is ever pressing, and no threats of peril seem
capable of restraining the activity of man for many years. Though the
proposition of abandoning the Island of Martinique has been seriously
considered, the chances are that, before many years have passed, a
cheerful and busy population will be at work again on the flanks of Mont
Pelee.
MOUNT ETNA
On the eastern coast of the Island of Sicily, and not far from the
sea, rises in solitary grandeur Mount Etna, the largest and highest of
European volcanoes. Its height above the level of the sea is a little
over 10,870 feet, considerably above the limit of perpetual snow.
It accordingly presents the striking phenomenon of volcanic vapors
ascending from a snow-clad summit. The base of the mountain is
eighty-seven miles in circumference, and nearly circular; but there is
a wide additional extent all around overspread by its lava. The lower
portions of the mountain are exceedingly fertile, and richly adorned
with corn-fields, vineyards, olive-groves and orchards. Above this
region are extensive forests, chiefly of oak, chestnut, and pine, with
here and there clumps of cork-trees and beech. In this forest region are
grassy glades, which afford rich pasture to numerous flocks. Above the
forest lies a volcanic desert, covered with black lava and slag. Out of
this region, which is comparatively flat rises the principal cone, about
1,100 feet in height, having on its summit the crater, whence sulphurous
vapors are continually evolved.
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