In consequence of all these terrific circumstances, the Pavonian commander gave this pass the name of Helle-gat, or, as it has been interpreted, Hell-gate;[30] which it continues to bear at the present day.
FOOTNOTES: [27] It is a matter long since established by certain of our philosophers, that is to say, having been often advanced and never contradicted, it has grown to be pretty nigh equal to a settled fact, that the Hudson was originally a lake dammed up by the mountains of the Highlands.

In process of time, however, becoming very mighty and obstreperous, and the mountains waxing pursy, dropsical, and weak in the back, by reason of their extreme old age, it suddenly rose upon them, and after a violent struggle effected its escape.

This is said to have come to pass in very remote time, probably before that rivers had lost the art of running up hill.

The foregoing is a theory in which I do not pretend to be skilled, not withstanding that I do fully give it my belief.
[28] A promontory in the Highlands.
[29] Properly spelt Hoeck (i.e.a point of land).
[30] This is a narrow strait in the Sound, at the distance of six miles above New York.

It is dangerous to shipping, unless under the care of skillful pilots, by reason of numerous rocks, shelves, and whirlpools.