The Function of the Earth- Core. 27 



The great problem of the age, which scien- 

 tists are intently engaged in solving, is the 

 correlation of the leading forces already ad- 

 verted to. Thus far light, heat, electricity, 

 magnetism, chemical action, vital action, co- 

 hesion, etc., have been proved to be parts 

 of one great whole. Now, since the espe- 

 cial characteristic of the great earth-core is 

 heat, it comes directly into relationship with 

 the forces mentioned. How then are its 

 forces expended ? Through what channels 

 do they manifest their presence ? The philo- 

 sophical mind would most naturally associate 

 with it the idea of stupendous magnetic 

 power. We may well suppose such a power 

 extending its influence through and beyond 

 the earth-crust, reaching out towards the 

 moon, and retro-acting with that body in pre- 

 serving their mutual relations. 



Does not this mighty influence reach out 

 toward the sun also, and act conjointly with 

 that great central orb in producing results, 

 which to us, have ever been great myster- 



ies. 4 



The Grand Magnetic Circuit. 

 In the retro-acting influence in operation 



4 Appendix, p. 99. 



