553 NOVUM ORGANUM. [BOOK IV 



densed to the utmost, but even some spirit is added, owing to 

 the action and concocting influence of the heavenly bodies. 



We have now, therefore, exhibited the species, or simple 

 elements of the motions, tendencies, and active powers, which 

 are most universal in nature ; and no small portion of natural 

 science has been thus sketched out. We do not, however, deny- 

 that other instances can perhaps be added, and our divisions 

 changed according to some more natural order of things, and 

 also reduced to a less number ; in which respect we do not allude 

 to any abstract classification, as if one were to say, that bodies 

 desire the preservation, exaltation, propagation, or fruition of 

 their nature; or, that motion tends to the preservation and 

 benefit either of the universe (as in the case of those of re- 

 sistance and connection), or of extensive wholes, as in the case of 

 those of the greater congregation, revolution, and abhorrence of 

 motion, or of particular forms, as in the case of the others. 

 For although such remarks be just, yet, unless they terminate 

 in matter and construction, according to true definitions, they 

 are speculative, and of little use. In the mean time, our 

 classification will suffice, and be of much use in the consideration 

 of the predominance of powers, and examining the wrestling 

 instances which constitute our present subject. 



For of the motions here laid down, some are quite invincible, 

 some more powerful than others, which they confine, check, and 

 modify ; others extend to a greater distance, others are more 

 immediate and swift, others strengthen, increase, and accelerate 

 the rest. 



The motion of resistance is most adamantine and invincible. 

 We are yet in doubt whether such be the nature of that of con- 

 nection ; for we cannot with certainty determine whether there 

 be a vacuum, either extensive or intermixed with matter. Of 

 one thing, however, we are satisfied, that the reason assigned by 

 Leucippus and Democritus for the introduction of a vacuum 

 (namely, that the same bodies could not otherwise comprehend, 

 and fill greater and less spaces) is false. Por there is clearly a 

 folding of matter, by which it wraps and unwraps itself in space 

 within certain limits, without the intervention of a vacuum. 

 'Not is there two thousand times more of vacuum in air than in 

 gold, as there should be on this hypothesis ; a fact demonstrated 

 by the very powerful energies of fluids (which would otherwise 

 float like fine dust in vacuo), and many other proofs. The other 

 motions direct, and are directed by each other, according to 

 their strength, quantity, excitement, emission, or the assistance 

 or impediments they meet with. 



For instance ; some armed magnets hold and support iron of 

 sixty times their own weight ; so far does the motion of lesser 

 congregation predominate over that of the greater ; but if the 

 weight be increased, it yield?. A lever of a certain atrengtli 



