16 THE GREAT INSTAURATION 



we are only to be conducted by the uncertain light of the 

 senses that sometimes shines, and sometimes hides its head; 

 and by collections of experiments and particular facts, in 

 which no guides can be trusted, as wanting direction them 

 selves, and adding to the errors of the rest. In this melan 

 choly state of things, one might be apt to despair both of 

 the understanding left to itself, and of all fortuitous helps; 

 as of a state irremediable by the utmost efforts of the hu 

 man genius, or the often-repeated chance of trial. The 

 only clew and method is to begin all anew, and direct our 

 steps in a certain order, from the very first perceptions of 

 the senses. Yet I must not be understood to say that noth 

 ing has been done in former ages, for the ancients have 

 shown themselves worthy of admiration in everything 

 which concerned either wit or abstract reflection; but, as 

 in former ages, when men at sea, directing their course 

 solely by the observation of the stars, might coast along 

 the shores of the continent, but could not trust themselves 

 to the wide ocean, or discover new worlds, until the use of 

 the compass was known; even so the present discoveries re 

 ferring to matters immediately under the jurisdiction of the 

 senses, are such as might easily result from experience and 

 discussion; but before we can enter the remote and hidden 

 parts of nature, it is requisite that v a better and more perfect 

 application of the human mind should be introduced. This, 

 however, is not to be understood as if nothing had been ef 

 fected by the immense. labors of so many past ages; as the 

 ancients have performed surprisingly in subjects that re 

 quired abstract meditation, and force of genius. But as 

 navigation was imperfect before the use of the compass, 

 so will many secrets of nature and art remain undiscov 

 ered, without a more perfect knowledge of the under 

 standing, its uses, and ways of working. 



For our own part, from an earnest desire of truth, we 

 have committed ourselves to doubtful, difficult, and solitary 

 ways; and, relying on the Divine assistance, have supported 

 our minds against the vehemence of opinions, our own in- 



