! o 2 CR YSTALLIZA TION. 



analysis we learn the composition of calcspar, so by 

 chemical analysis, it is said, we ascertain the composition 

 of living matter. It has been suggested that it is not 

 probable that there is any real difference as regards the 

 nature of the molecular forces which compel the carbonate 

 of lime to assume and retain the crystalline form, and those 

 which cause the albuminoid matter to move and grow, 

 select and form and maintain its particles in a state of in- 

 cessant motion. There is the dogma that the property of 

 crystallising is to crystallisable matter what the vital property 

 is to albuminoid matter (protoplasm). The crystalline form, 

 it has been gravely asserted corresponds to the organic form, 

 and its internal structure to tissue structure. Crystalline 

 force being a property of matter, the force which has been 

 called vital force, it is confidently remarked is also but a 

 property of matter. 



To the latter positive statements it might be objected 

 that crystalline force keeps particles still and compels them 

 to assume a constant form, while vital force prevents them 

 from assuming any definite form at all, and keeps them 

 moving, form being assumed only when the matter is with- 

 drawn from the influence of the supposed vital force ; but 

 these and other objections raised to the physical theory of 

 life have been dismissed by the philosopher as absurd and 

 frivolous. It has been asserted positively that there is but 

 one true theory of life the physical theory. The advocates 

 of this doctrine seem to think that any objections raised to 

 it ought not even to be listened to, because, as they assure 

 their faithful followers, by the rapid advance of molecular 

 physics, the truth of their theory will some day be fully 

 and conclusively established. They, therefore, regard it a 



