The chariots, which we had ordered to be drawn out, were so agitated backwards and forwards, though upon the most level ground, that we could not keep them steady, even by supporting them with large stones. The sea seemed to roll back upon itself, and to be driven from its banks by the convulsive motion of the earth; it is certain at least the shore was considerably enlarged, and several sea animals were left upon it. –Letter to Cornelius Tacitus,
Pliny the Younger
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Which part of the passage is essential to understanding the effects of the eruption?
Which part of the passage is irrelevant to understanding the effects of the eruption?