Chip. II.] Chemical Philosophij. 1 15 



on its merits, and it soon became the popular sy- 

 stem of France. 



The next year after tlie publication of the new- 

 theory and nomenclature by the Royal Academy, 

 they were exhibited in an English dress, and began 

 to be more generally studied than before by Bri- 

 tish chemists. Among these, the number of con- 

 verts to the improved doctrines and language soon 

 became considerable. But this favourable recep- 

 tion was by no means universal : Dr. Black, Dr. 

 Priestley, Mr. Kirwan, and Mr. Keir, with a few 

 other conspicuous characters, took their stand 

 among the opposing party ; and se^ eral of them 

 wrote largely and ably against the new opinions 

 and terms. It is obvious that any system opposed 

 by such men must have serious obstacles to en- 

 counter. But the system in question made its way 

 ^vith wonderful success, amidst all opposition. 

 Early in the year 1791? ^^i"- Kirwan, after com- 

 bating in defence of phlogiston for a long time, 

 and with admirable prowess, laid down his arms, 

 and declared himself a convert to the new doc- 

 trine. In tlRe same month Dr. Black gave up his 

 objections, and went over to the antiphlogistian 

 ranks. And, among all the distinguished British 

 chemical philosophers. Dr. Priestley and Mr. Keir 

 alone adhered to the opposition with which they 

 set out. The former, especially, it must be ac- 

 knowledged, defended the phlogistic citadel with 

 a degree of skill, firmness, and force; and dis- 

 played an extent of resources, and a dignified 

 zeal in the warfare, which must do him immortal 

 honour among all who respect talents, and to \vhom 



science is dear. 



I 2 



