Fred Locke observed strange lightning effects.

An Interesting Phenomenon

A communication has been received from Mr. Fred. M. Locke, of Victor, N. Y., describing a peculiar phenomenon which he has noticed in two different thunderstorms, and for which he has been unable to find an explanation. He says:

"On the 8th of August, 1888, in a short thunderstorm, and again on Sept. 7, 1893, in a peculiarly long thunderstorm, which lasted from 2:15 in the morning until 4 o'clock In the afternoon, with constant flashing of lightning, I noticed after several flashes large red sparks float away in the air like the sparks from the path of a skyrocket. These sparks appeared to be as large as a man's hat at the nearest point, and gradually diminish in size as the distance increased along the path of the discharge, until they disappeared in the distance. These discharges must have been at least two or three miles away, and, for the sparks to show up so distinct, must have been quite large, as they did not seem bright, but of a deep reddish color; they floated for some six or seven seconds, and only appeared after a discharge that had a peculiar purple color and three distinct flashes In the same path. Each discharge seemed very broad and heavy, but not Intense with brightness—soft and mellow, and apparently stood suspended for some few seconds. What could have this matter been that floated away?"