ADDRESS. 33 



terrestrial atmosphere, and Captain Abney has found, by his new 

 photometric method, that absorption, due to hydro-carbons, takes place 

 somewhere between the solar and terrestrial atmosphere. In order to test 

 this interesting result still further, he has lately taken his apparatus to the 

 top of the RifFel with a view of diminishing the amount of terrestrial 

 atmospheric air between it and the sun, and intends to bring a paper on 

 this subject befoi-e Section A. Stellar space filled with such matter as 

 hydro-carbon and aqueous vapour would establish a material continuity 

 between the sun and his planets, and between the innumerable solar 

 systems of which the universe is composed. If chemical action and 

 reaction can further be admitted, we may be able to trace certain con- 

 ditions of thermal dependence and maintenance, in which we may 

 recognise principles of high perfection, applicable also to comparatively 

 humble purposes of human life. 



We shall thus find that in the great workshop of nature there are no 

 lines of demai'cation to be drawn between the most exalted speculation 

 and commonplace practice, and that all knowledge must lead up to one 

 great result, that of an intelligent recognition of the Creator through His 

 works. So then, we members of the British Association and fellow- 

 workers in every branch of science may exhort one another in the words 

 of the American bard who has so lately departed from amongst us : — 



Let VIS then be up and doing, 



With a heart for any fate ; 

 Still achieving, still pursuing, 



Learn to labour and to wait. 



1882. 



