MATTER. 5 



f fleets l>y the slightest modifications in the means she 

 employs." 



In conclusion there is a remarkable analogy between the 

 component parts of matter, and the component parts of 

 langu 



Our alphabet is composed of a number of letters, but they 

 are all divisible into the two great classes of consonants and 

 vowels. By them we express ourselves in simple language that 

 children might understand, while the inspired poet by the same 

 means can give utterance to the grandest thoughts our literature 

 contains. Although also the vowels and consonants remain the 

 same, yet there is no lack to the multiplicity of new names 

 that may be coined, nor a dearth of grand ideas, or of sonorous 

 eloquence. 



So in our language of nature, although it is composed of an 

 infinite variety of simple elements, yet they are all divisible 

 into two great classes. 



By a simple union they form water and weeds, and worms 

 and insects ; while by a more intricate process they produce the 

 beautiful bird, the pretty flower, and the lovely woman. 



Moreover, as we have said by means of the same letters, new 

 words are being coined, and new ideas expressed every day ; 

 so by the commingling of the same elemental atoms in nature, 

 new plants are growing, new flowers are blooming, new colours 

 are imparted, and new animals are created every day the world 

 exist* 



