TIME-RECKONING. 115 



Besides the standard keepers of ''cosmopolitan" time, established at 

 many places possibly in every civilized country, it is suggested that 

 every clock and watch should, as far as practicable, move synchi'o- 

 iiically, all indicating the same time. 



As a theory, it is proposed that when the hands of any one time- 

 piece point to A or to G, the hands of each and every other horo- 

 logical instrument in use throughout the globe should point to A or 

 to G at the same moment. 



It is proposed that, in establishing the zero of the sub-divisions 

 and its corresponding meridian in relation to the surface of the earth, 

 regard be had to the general convenience, and that the views and 

 interests of all nations should, as far as practicable, be equally 

 consulted. 



"Under the system of cosmopolitan time, the meridian which corres- 

 ponds with zero would practically become the initial or prime meridian 

 of the globe. The establishment of this meridian must necessarily 

 be arbitrary. It affects all countries, more esj)ecially maritime 

 countries, and in consequence of prejudice and national sentiment, 

 it is possible that delicacy and tact and judgment may have to be 

 exercised in the consideration of the subject. There ought not, how- 

 ever, to be much difficulty in dealing with the question. Matters of 

 scientific concern are not and should not be made subservient to 

 national jealousy. Science is cosmopolitan, and no question can be 

 more thoroughly so than that which we are attempting to investigate. 



In a separate paper, I have at some length discussed this branch of 

 the subject, and I trust I have succeeded in pointing out a convenient 

 and suitable position for a prime meridian, common to all the world, 

 a selection which would offend no prejudice, and when carefully con- 

 sidered would, I feel assured, commend itself as well calculated to 

 meet all the purposes for which a common initial meridian has for a 

 great many years back been proposed, and likewise those special 

 objects for which it is now suggested. 



COSMOPOLITAN AND LOCAL TIME. 



Assuming a common zero of longitude established by general 

 concurrence, each rotation of the earth on its axis may be noted by 

 all nations simultaneously. Under the system of cosmopolitan time, 

 it would be everywhere practicable to keep an accurate chronological 

 reckoning without complication or confusion. It is necessary, how- 



