276 VESUVIUS, ETNA AND STROMBOLI 
bursting with a crackling noise, threw out to the height of about 
1200 feet large quantities of red-hot stones and scoriz, which, des- 
cribing parabolic curves, fell in a fiery shower all around. After 
another brief repose, the more moderate action was resumed as 
before. | 
Lipari, a neighboring volcano, was formerly more active than 
Stromboli, though for centuries past it has been in a state of com- 
plete quiescence. The Island of Volcano lies south of Lipari. Its 
crater was active before the Christian era, and still emits sulphurous 
and other vapors. At present its main office is to serve.as a sul- 
phur mine. Thus the peak which gives title to all fire-breathing 
mountains has become a servant to man. So are the mighty fallen !