33 



that its lower attributes are independent of a 

 similar principle of action ; but we know nothing 

 of the essence either of matter or mind ; all we 

 know is, that each exhibits phenomena totally dis- 

 tinct from the other, and possessing, so far as we 

 can perceive, nothing in common. The one is 

 extended, figured, divisible hard or soft solid 

 or fluid the other does not display any of these 

 qualities, but feels, and thinks, and reasons. 

 That the mental phenomena do not exist in this 

 sublunary state, except in connection with or- 

 ganized bodies is undeniable ; but were we to go 

 farther, and attempt to penetrate into the nature 

 of that connection, we should soon find ourselves 

 involved in speculations beyond the reach of the 

 human faculties. Were we inclined, for exam- 

 ple, to assume that mind is a mere result of ma- 

 terial organization, we might find many plausi- 

 bilities by which the theory could be maintained, 

 arising from the peculiar developements of the 

 one, as connected with the greater or less degree 

 of perfection exhibited by the other, and there is 

 assuredly something attractive in the views which 

 might thus be opened up to us j but we must not 

 forget that there is something within us which is 

 to survive our organic structure, and that the 

 one infinite Mind from which the universe pro- 

 ceeds, cannot, without absurdity, be supposed to 

 be inherent in a material frame ; and here I 

 am contented to stop, with the humble confes- 

 sion, that " such knowledge is too wonderful for 

 me it is high, I cannot attain unto it." 



