SIGNS AND SIGNS OF MIND 5 



spectra of various substances burning. When sodium 

 is burning in a flame a bright line appears in the yellow 

 part of the spectrum. Potassium gives two bright lines, 

 one at each extremity. Strontium places its special signs 

 in the blue and orange, and six less distinct ones in the 

 red portion. Each substance has its own lines, and 

 scientists, when they see them, at once and confidently 

 affirm that the corresponding substances are present. 

 New elements have been discovered by means of lines 

 otherwise unaccounted for. From whatever source the 

 light proceedeth, though it come from the most distant 

 stars, when certain lines are seen, there is no hesitation 

 in inferring that the elements which those signs represent 

 are in the flames of those stars. The presence of T ^ or 

 5^3- millionth of a grain of sodium is sufficient to print 

 its characteristic line. A portion of lithium, less than 

 millionth of a grain, can thus be detected. A large 

 number of elements have in this manner been proved to 

 exist in the sun's atmosphere. 



Mind has signs by which it makes itself known. It 

 shines in the human countenance ; it beams in the starry 

 eye ; it speaks in the tones of the voice and in words of 

 wisdom; it shows itself in skilful work. The face of 

 idiocy is easily recognised. The lack-lustre eye is quickly 

 understood. A meaningless voice and words tell their 

 own tale. A shapeless mass, rude disorder, blundering 

 workmanship, proclaim loudly what they lack. In 

 animals there is a measure of intelligence, as in the ox 

 that knoweth his owner, in the horse that will find his 

 way when the rider faileth. Wherever mind is present 

 in any existence, it acts with intelligence, it operates in 

 an orderly manner. It thinks, it plans, it measures, it 

 weighs, it shapes, it numbers ; it locates, adjusts, adapts, 

 arranges, and builds up complex unities ; it forms same- 



