AND SCHONBEIN 31 



chlorine atoms has been restored throughout the 

 whole system of molecules. Now experiment has 

 shown that the current produced by the polarized acid 

 does as a fact last for a considerable time, as you will 

 find stated in the paper to which I have referred. 



If my hypothesis ascribes the polarization in 

 question to its true cause, it must lead to the import- 

 ant conclusion for theoretical chemistry that between 

 the complete separation of two elements and their 

 most intimate chemical union there exist intermediate 

 conditions of combination, of which as yet we know 

 nothing ; unless indeed isomerism points to some such 

 relation. As you may readily conceive, I shall 

 devote my whole attention to a subject of such great 

 theoretical interest, and shall endeavour by pursuing 

 my investigations to throw still more light on the 

 question. If it were not too much presumption on 

 my part I would ask you to be so kind as to com- 

 municate to me at your leisure your views as to the 

 cause of the electrical polarization of liquid electro- 

 lytes. To a student of chemistry any suggestion 

 from so practised a master would be a cause of 

 gratification and encouragement. 



In conclusion, I should be much obliged if you 

 would tell me whether the Eoyal Academy of 

 Stockholm receives papers in German, and, if so, 

 what formalities have to be observed. 



I have the honour to remain, dear Sir, 

 Your most obedient servant, 



C. F. SCHONBEIN. 



BALE, Uth October 1838. 



