598. ASTRONOMY, Solar eclipse.—
We were much disappointed in Virginia generally
on the day of the great eclipse, which proved to
be cloudy. In Williamsburg, where it was total,
I understand only the beginning was seen. At
this place, (Monticello,) which is latitude 38°
8′ and longitude west from Williamsburg, about
1° 45′, as is conjectured, 11 digits only were
supposed to be covered. It was not seen at all
until the moon had advanced nearly one-third
over the sun's disc. Afterwards it was seen at
intervals through the whole. The egress particularly
was visible. It proved, however, of
little use to me, for want of a time piece that
could be depended on.—
To David Rittenhouse. Washington ed. i, 210.
Ford ed., ii, 162.
(M.
July. 1778)
