The western parts of Africa are intersected by the branches of Mount Atlas, a name so idly celebrated by the fancy of poets; [86] but which is now diffused over the immense ocean that rolls between the ancient and the new continent.

[87] [Footnote 86: The long range, moderate height, and gentle declivity of Mount Atlas, (see Shaw's Travels, p.

5,) are very unlike a solitary mountain which rears its head into the clouds, and seems to support the heavens.

The peak of Teneriff, on the contrary, rises a league and a half above the surface of the sea; and, as it was frequently visited by the Phoenicians, might engage the notice of the Greek poets.

See Buffon, Histoire Naturelle, tom.i.p.312.Histoire des Voyages, tom.