134 TRANSACTIONS OF THE CANADIAN INSTITUTE. [VOL. II. 



the remarkable attribute that it can be measured with the nicest 

 precision. 



If we accept the cardinal idea running through this definition that 

 there is one time only we will find ourselves on solid ground, and we may 

 proceed to build up on the fundamental principles of unity and unbroken 

 continuity a scheme of reckoning to meet all reasonable demands which 

 may be made upon it, in this and succeeding generations. The problem 

 would be easier of solution were there no existing customs to overcome, 

 and we had to begin de novo to establish the best means of accomplish- 

 ing the desired purpose. 



As we are circumstanced in the world's history, we have to accommo- 

 date the reform of to-day to such of our inherited usages as are not at 

 variance with essential principles, or do not materially affect their 

 application. If, for example, circumstances admitted, we might with 

 advantage introduce the decimal s}'stem as a notation to be followed, 

 but we already use the duodecimal combined with the sexagesimal 

 division, and force of habit seems to require, that we should, as far as 

 possible, adhere to the existing system in this respect, at least so far as it 

 is not at variance with sound principles and the general convenience. It 

 is obviously indispensible that we should refrain from any meddlesome 

 interference with confirmed usages, or suggest changes not manifestly 

 called for. 



The advance of civilization during the past half century has produced 

 entirely new conditions in human life. Steam and electricity applied to 

 communication by sea and land have done much to obliterate distance, 

 and bring all nations, so to speak, within one neighborhood. Through 

 force of circumstances, therefore, we are obliged to take a comprehensive 

 view of the entire globe in considering the question of time-reckoning. 

 It is no longer possible to limit the subject to a narrow and sectional 

 aspect. The progress of the age demands that we should not confine our 

 view to one limited horizon, to one country or to one continent. The 

 problem presented for solution to the people of both hemispheres is to 

 secure a measurement of the one universal passage of time common to 

 all, which shall be based on data so incontrovertible, and on principles so 

 sound, as to obtain the acceptance of the generations which are to 

 follow us. 



To effect any measurement there are two essentials ; first, a starting 

 point or zero ; second, a scale or a unit of measurement. The Wash- 

 ington Conference of 1884 has determined both a zero and a unit. The 

 2ero is the instant of mean solar passage on the anti-prime meridian 



