252 



of something that is defined. I think it is a great pity to introduce into 

 anything that pretends to be accurate logical discussion, terms which we can- 

 not and do not define, because when we do that, we do not know what we are 

 talking about. We can predicate nothing respecting it, if we do not know 

 what the word means : I therefore decline to make any observations about 

 the conservation of power. I think Mr. Xewton will now see the ground of 

 the difference between ]\Ir. Moore's and my views. An observation was 

 made about vibratory motion as the force of atoms. Xow, force is one thing ; 

 vibratory motion is a totally difi'erent thuig ; and atoms we know nothing 

 about. If I am told, therefore, that vibratory motion is the force of atoms, 

 I cannot understand it. It conveys no idea to my mind. The gist of Mr. 

 Moore's objections to the definitions which I have here given, and to the 

 relations of force and energy which I have expressed, appear to be meta- 

 physical rather than physical. At all events, I think he has offered no 

 physical objection. If that be the case, I can only say that his objections do 

 not appeal to my mind in opposition to the logic of facts. (Cheers.) 

 The meeting was then adjourned. 



