So generally has this report been cir
culated, that it has come io be be
lieved by a large number of the in
habitants of New Orleans; and many
are preparing to move from the rear
portion of the city, to the higher
ground near the liver. The fact that
this sensational rumor was reported as
having its origin from the scientific
researches of the celebrated Professor
Agassiz, gained for it a kind of half
doubting credence even among the
more intelligent and better educated
classes. This matter has become the
subject of a correspondence between
several prominent citizens of New
Orleans and Professor C. G. Forshey,
and, believing it will propve interest
ing, we append it herewith. L. is to
be hoped that the sound reasoning of
thr learned Professor may serve to
dispel the present belief entertained
by so nmang people in a rumor which
is at at once foolish and improbable.
Here is the correspondence referred
to:
NEW ORLEANS, September 9, 1i71.
Professor C. G. Forshey :
DEAR SIR-A widely extended ap
prehension prevails among the people
of the gulf and Atlantic coast, pro
duced by a prediction, imputed to
Profesusor Agassiz, of a great tidal
wave Or inundation of the coast from
the sea.
After some conversation with you,
we ask, on behalf of ourselves and
many others we venture to represent,
that you give us for publication, your
views as to the merits of the predic
tion, and if convenient, your reasons,
blietily expressed, for the views you
entertain.
We ask this favor, believing that
such publication will tend to allay the
pulic anxiety, from your reputation as
a man of science.
