Page:Account of several remarkable earthquakes which have happened in various quarters of the world (1).pdf/3

 me with apprehensions that some more dreadful calamity was impending. The sea itself seemed to wear a very unusual appearance; those who have seen a lake in a violent shower of rain all covered over with bubbles, will have some idea of its agitations. My surprise was still increased by the calmness and serenity of the weather; not a breeze, not a cloud, which might be supposed to put all nature thus into motion. I therefore warned my companion, that an earthquake was approaching, and, after some time, making for the shore with all possible diligence, we landed at Tropæa. But we had scarce arrived at the Jesuits college in that city, when our ears were stunned with an horrid sound, resembling that of an infinite number of chariots driven fiercely forward, the wheels rattling and the thongs cracking. Soon after this, a most dreadful earthquake ensued; so that the whole track upon which we stood seemed to vibrate, as if we were in the scale of a balance that continued waving. This motion, however, soon grew more violent; and being no longer able to keep my legs, I was thrown prostrate upon the ground. After some time, finding that I remained unhurt amidst the general concussion, I resolved to venture for safety; and running as fast as I could, reached the shore. I did not search long here, till I found the boat in which I had landed, and my companions also. Leaving this feat of desolation, we prosecuted our voyage along the coast, and the next day came to Rochetta, where we landed, although the earth still continued in violent agitation. But we were scarce arrived at our inn, when we were once more obliged to return to our boat; and in about half an hour we saw the greatest part of the town, and the inn at which we had set up, dashed to the ground, and