port, are among the number of these springs ; many of them 3 or 400 acres in extent, and one as large as a thousand acres. All these ponds are surrounded by clear upland shores, without any intermixture of marsh ; and the surrounding country, cultivated as it is generally, in grazing farms, presents an aspect of more than ordinary cleanness. The water, as might be expected under such circumstances, is perfectly soft and clear, much superior in the former respect to the waters of our western lakes, and fully equal in the latter.
The Croton, fed by such springs, could scarcely be otherwise than pure, and the fact of its purity was strongly verified by the experience of the party in every stage of the water during the season. Specimens were taken up both in the high and low state of the river, and have been analysed by Mr. Chilton, and the results obtained fully corroborate these statements. It appears from his report annexed, that the quantity of saline matter, probably the salts of lime and magnesia, does not exceed two and eight-tenths grains in the gallon a quantity, he observes, so small, that a considerable quantity of the water would ;
be necessary to determine the proportions. About two grains of vegetable matter were also suspended in the water, in consequence of the rapid current in which it was taken up, and which would of course subside in the receiving reservoir."
The Report next proceeds to speak of the Bronx, and of the capabilities of, and objections to, that source of supply.