276 Scientific Intelligence. 
from B, then B also in turn assumes the solid state. This process 
goes on from molecule to molecule till the energy is transmitted 
through to the opposite side and the ice is left in its original solid 
state. This is the rationale of Faraday’s property of regelation. 
is is no mere theory or hypothesis; it is a necessary conse- 
quence from known facts. We know that ice at 32° cannot take . 
on energy from a heated body without melting; and we know 
also equally well that a slab of ice at 32°, notwithstanding this, 
still, as a mass, retains its solid state while the heat is being trans- 
mitted through it. This proves that every molecule resumes its 
crystalline form the moment after the energy is transferred over 
to the adjoining molecule. 
This point being established, every difficulty regarding the de- 
scent of the glacier entirely disa rs; for a moiecule the mo- 
ment that it assumes the fluid state is completely freed from shear- 
ing-force, and can descend by virt its own weight without 
any impediment. All that the molecule requires is simply room 
or space to advance in. If the molecule were in absolute contact 
cier. The molecule A at the lower end, say, of the surface, receives 
ea 
shearing-force and descends by its own weight, but it contracts 
5 
tional supp, which it will receive from the solidifying of A will 
melt it. € moment t wil ee 
reaches A. B then is solidified a little below its former position. 
The same process of reasoning is in a similar manner applicable to 
