192 W. A. Norton — Variability of the Ultimate Molecule. 
to surrounding molecules, if the inherent atomic forces suffer 
no ch But to suppose that the inherent atomic forces 
vary in intensity at a given distance, is to discard the ordinary 
conception of the atom, which is that it is not only invariable 
in its mass and volume, but also in the intensity of action, 
whether attractive or repulsive, it is capable of exerting on 
another atom at a given distance from it. We are accordingly 
constrained to regard the elementary parts of molecules, whic 
have received the designation of atoms (“chemical atoms”) 
as in reality liable to variation in their capabilities of mechanl- 
eal action. But we are not therefore under the necessity of re- 
 Repeges Besides, while researches in Physical Optics have 
ed to the conclusion that the atoms of bodies are probably 
surrounded by such atmospheres, electric phenomena give Mt 
mation of the presence in bodies, and in intimate association 
with their molecules, of a subtile fluid termed the “electric 
* This Journal, July, 1864, and May, 1872. 
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