The most natural and the most simple
interpretation is that to which we have referred, of a great inundation
produced by the melting of the snows; it is entirely logical and is
sustained by evident analogy with terrestrial phenomena. We conclude,
therefore, that the canals are such in fact and not only in name. The
network formed by these was probably determined in its origin in the
geological state of the planet, and has come to be slowly elaborated in
the course of centuries. It is not necessary to suppose them the work of
intelligent beings, and, notwithstanding the almost geometrical
appearance of all of their system, we are now inclined to believe them
to be produced by the evolution of the planet, just as on the earth we
have the English Channel and the channel of Mozambique.
It would be a problem not less curious than complicated and difficult to
study the system of this immense stream of water, upon which perhaps
depends principally the organic life upon the planet, if organic life is
found there. The variations of their appearance demonstrated that this
system is not constant. When they become displaced or their outlines
become doubtful and ill defined, it is fair to suppose that the water is
getting low or is even entirely dried up. Then, in place of the canals
there remains either nothing or at most stripes of yellowish color
differing little from the surrounding background. Sometimes they take on
a nebulous appearance, for which at present it is not possible to assign
a reason.
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