A
Very Large Comet
Last night about seven o'clock, an unusual
light was dimly seen towards the N. W. -- Presently it was
found to be a Comet. Desirous that it should be
observed through a telescope, Mr. Patterson was informed
of it immediately. From the top of the University we
had a very full view of it. Its rays appeared to
extend about 15 feet, inclining to the north, but nearly
on a line with the horizon. He noted its position,
but with the eye only; and trying it on the Globe, found
it to be about 50 degrees from the north pole, and nearly
the point of an angle with the four first stars of the
great bear; that is, from Alpha and Beta, and Gamma and
Delta. It was supposed that it would set about half
past 9 at night, but that it would again rise in about 7
hours. While the Comet was much admired for its
beauty and magnitude, no precision in any way was
used. Particular observations may be made to night;
and no doubt but Mr. Patterson will inform himself in
every circumstance relating to it.
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