74 NATURAL HISTORY, 



the affections ; as there be merry tunes, doleful 

 tunes, solemn tunes ; tunes inclining men s minds to 

 pity ; warlike tunes, &c. So as it is no marvel if 

 they alter the spirits, considering that tunes have a 

 predisposition to the motion of the spirits in them 

 selves. But yet it hath been noted, that though this 

 variety of tunes doth dispose the spirits to variety of 

 passions, conform unto them, yet generally music 

 feedeth that disposition of the spirits, which it 

 findeth. We see also, that several airs and tunes do 

 please several nations and persons, according to the 

 sympathy they have with their spirits. 



Experiments in consort touching sounds ; and first 

 touching the nullity and entity of sounds. 



Perspective hath been with some diligence 

 enquired; and so hath the nature of sounds, in some 

 sort, as far as concerneth music : but the nature of 

 sounds in general hath been superficially observed. It 

 is one of the snbtilest pieces of nature. And besides, 

 I practise, as I do advise ; which is, after long en 

 quiry of things immersed in matter, to interpose 

 some subject which is immateriate, or less materiate ; 

 such as this of sounds ; to the end, that the intellect 

 may be rectified, and become not partial. 



115. It is first to be considered, what great mo 

 tions there are in nature, which pass without sound 

 or noise. The heavens turn about in a most rapid 

 motion, without noise to us perceived ; though in 

 some dreams they have been said to make an excel 

 lent music. So the motions of the comets, and fiery 



