30 



positions of the law of gravitation remain inoperative 

 when we apply a practical test. 



Finally the theory of cosmic gravitation presupposes 

 the exercise of a Force which has, so to speak, flung 

 into the universe, with inconceivable initial momentum 

 and various direction, all the stars and planets and co- 

 mets and cloud-spots in existence. Myriads of these 

 worlds we see, and we have reason to conclude that 

 myriads more extend themselves in space beyond our 

 ken. These worlds are masses of vast size, in compa- 

 rison with which the most enormous machines, and even 

 the most tremendous volcanic eruptions are mere points, 

 and we would ask from whence and in what form this 

 unspeakable Force presented itself, and where is it? We 

 -cannot detect it anywhere, and the theory of gravitation 

 cannot help us in our search. 



