PHYSICAL ann LITERARY. 109 
- How far the concurrence of the Deity is 
neceflary to the fupport of created beings in 
general, is perhaps impoffible for us: to de- 
termine: but, unlefs fome continual influ- 
ence of that fort be requifite, there appears 
_ to be no occafion for any fpecial concurrence, 
in order to account for the continuance of 
motion. If. however, it could be demon- 
ftrated, that body cannot continue to move 
on ina ftreight line, by virtue of the firft 
impulfe ; what more rational folution will be 
found, than to have recourfe to the efficiency 
of an intelligent principle? For tho’ it fhould 
be granted, that the continuation of motion, 
and the communication of it from one body 
to another, cannot proceed from the inertia 
: of matter; will it therefore follow, that every 
atom of unintelligent and undefigning matter 
_ is éendued- with an, ativity capable of moving 
_ it with the greateft order and regularity, as 
_ well as variety and diverfity ; conforming it- 
: felf to the motion of other atoms with which 
it is conneéted ; and adapting itfelf often to 
the will and intention'of man? Why fhould 
wernot rather rank this power.of the prefer- 
vation of motion, with thofe other aétive 
hadi employed upon matter, tho’ not ef- 
fentially 
