from 300 to 400 broad, in the interior of Asia. Dr M'Gowan states,
that the fall amounted to ten grains per square foot, but without
specifying whether this quantity includes the whole duration of the
shower. During calms, it remains suspended. The dust thus raised from
the Mongolian steppes gives the peculiar tinge to the Yellow Sea.

Notwithstanding the annoyance of these dust-showers, they have a
valuable compensation. The Chinese, whose closeness of observation in
agricultural matters is well known, assert that they are always
followed by a fruitful season--not, it is true, as cause, but as
effect. The explanation is, that the soil of the provinces most
subject to the visitation, being of a compact character, is loosened
and lightened by the sand borne on the wind from the Tatarian plains,
and at the same time, the lighter fertilising matters carried away by
the great rivers are replaced; and thus, that which at first sight
appears an unmitigated evil, becomes the cause of good harvests, for
they invariably follow a fall of sand.




THE CITY INQUEST FOR THE POOR.


I keep a shop in the City, and open it every morning as Bow Church
bells are ringing out eight o'clock. I pay a very heavy rent, as well
as Queen's taxes and poor's-rates; and I could do neither, to say
nothing of maintaining my family, if I did not mind my business, and
work hard. But by the help of constant attention and industry, I am
happy to say, I am able to make my shop keep me and my family too,