146 On the Formation of the Universe. 
mation. Under the last mentioned conditions, only one 
other mode of formation is possible. It might take place 
in plane parallel strata, perpendicular to the course of pro- 
gress, in the same manner as in the finite ocean, where a 
disturbing force was fequireds and, it is alike obvious in 
both cases, that the strata would be regular.. With this lat- 
that a finite one would fall infinitely short of the power of 
the Deity. It would leave his angelic subjects without any 
practical proof of his complete omnipotence. It seems al- 
so the most consistent and exalted conception respecting a 
wise moral agent, that his work is never terminated, and 
that the power which he possesses is for ever exerted. 
From reasoning a priori, then, it seems a very natural con- 
clusion, that each act of creative power is expanded through 
an infinite plane, and that the successive acts form an eter- 
nal series. Ifthis idea appears too grand, let it be remem- 
bered that it is formed respecting the works of the Deity. 
Metaphysical reasoning, however, is not the only ground on 
which our opinions on this subject may be founded. We 
see the celestial systems arranged into forms which are ut- 
terly unaccountable, unless their formation bas been .pro- 
gressive. The account which Dr. Herschel has given, is 
only placing one difficulty on the shoulders of another: for 
it is not less impracticable to account for the position of 
those ruling luminaries, which he supposes may have mar- 
shalled the starry hosts of smaller magnitude, into their 
present regular arrangement, than to account for that ar- 
rangement without such assistance. If the formation 
mto systems has been progressive, we are perfectly at 4 
ss to say where it began, or where’ it will terminate. 
By far, the most natural supposition, is, that it will have ne 
termination, and had nocommencement. If the universe is 
finite, it is obvious, that without a constant miracle, © 
which we find not the least indication, so far as observation 
