On the explanation of the so-called ‘mysterious circles.’

The author refers to explanations which have been given of the phenomenon, of which he proposes to give a new one, and points out various courses which the propelled air may be supposed to to take with reference to the cards. He then offers what he considers to be the true explanation of the phenomenon. He considers that no sooner has the air struck upon the loose card, than it is reflected, spreading partly, if not entirely, over its surface, and then ascends, carrying with it the interposing atmosphere, and excluding the surrounding air. This, he submits, is analogous to ordinary suction, and by this means the loose card is at once drawn up and fixed. He considers that the reflected air, thus rising and driven out by the descending current, will have additional power when the fixed card is considerably larger than the other.