378 THE CONSEEVATION OF FORCE. 



which are known into one harmonious whole ; and if in such 

 strivings, we, whilst applying the principle of conservation, 

 see but imperfectly, still we should endeavour to see, for even 

 an obscure and distorted vision is better than none. Let us, 

 if we can, discover a new thing in any shape ; the true ap- 

 pearance and character will be easily developed afterwards. 



Some are much surprised that I should, as they think, 

 venture to oppose the conclusions of Newton ; but here there 

 is a mistake. I do not oppose Newton on any point ; it is 

 rather those who sustain the idea of action at a distance, that 

 contradict him. Doubtful as I ought to be of myself, I am 

 certainly very glad to feel that my convictions are in accord- 

 ance with his conclusions. At the same time, those who oc- 

 cupy themselves with such matters ought not to depend alto- 

 gether upon authority, but should find reason within them- 

 selves, after careful thought and consideration, to use and 

 abide by their own judgment. Newton himself, whilst refer- 

 ring to those who were judging his views, speaks of such as 

 are competent to form an opinion in such matters, and makes 

 a strong distinction between them and those who were incom- 

 petent for the case. 



But after all, the principle of the conservation of force 

 may by some be denied. Well, then, if it be unfounded even 

 in its application to the smallest part of the science of force, 

 the proof must be within our reach, for all physical science 

 is so. In that case, discoveries as large or larger than any 

 yet made, may be anticipated. I do not resist the search for 

 them, for no one can do harm, but only good, who works 

 with an earnest and truthful spirit in such a direction. But 

 let us not admit the destruction or creation of force without 

 clear and constant proof. Just as the chemist owes all the 

 perfection of his science to his dependence on the certainty 

 of gravitation applied by the balance, so may the physical 

 philosopher expect to find the greatest security and the utmost 

 aid in the principle of the conservation of foice. All that 



