1857.] on the Conservation of Force. 365 



science, or to map out and develop those which are known into 

 one harmonious whole ; and if in such strivings, we, whilst applying 

 the principle of conservation, see but imperfectly, still we should 

 endeavour to see, for even an obscure and distorted vision is better 

 than none. Let us, if we can, discover a new thing in any shape ; 

 the true appearance and character will be easily developed after- 

 wards. 



Some are much surprised that I should, as they think, venture 

 to oppose the conclusions of Newton : but here there is a mistake. 

 I do not oppose Newton on any point ; it is rather those who sus- 

 tain the idea of action at a distance, that contradict him. Doubtful 

 as I ought to be of myself, I am certainly very glad to feel that 

 my convictions are in accordance with his conclusions. At the 

 same time, those who occupy themselves with such matters ought 

 not to depend altogether upon authority, but should find reason 

 within themselves, after careful thought and consideration, to use 

 and abide by their own judgment. Newton himself, whilst referring 

 to those who were judging his views, speaks of such as are compe- 

 tent to form an opinion in such matters, and makes a strong dis- 

 tinction between them and those who were incompetent for the 

 case. 



But after all, the principle of the conservation of force may by 

 some be denied. Well, then, if it be unfounded even in its appli- 

 cation to the smallest part of the science of force, the proof must be 

 within our reach, for all physical science is so. In that case, dis- 

 coveries as large or larger than any yet made, may be anticipated. 

 I do not resist tlie search for them, for no one can do harm, but 

 only good, who works with an earnest and truthful spirit in such a 

 direction. But let us not admit the destruction or creation of force 

 without clear and constant proof. Just as the chemist owes all the 

 perfection of his science to his dependence on the certainty of gra- 

 vitation applied by the balance, so may the physical philosopher 

 expect to find the greatest security and the utmost aid in the prin- 

 ciple of the conservation of force. All that we have that is good 

 and safe, as the steam-engine, the electric-telegraph, &c., witness to 

 that principle, — it would require a perpetual motion, a fire without 

 heat, heat without a source, action without reaction, cause without 

 effect, or effect without a cause, to displace it from its rank as a 

 law of nature. 



[M. F.] 



2c2 



