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which ray experiments enable me to lay before the Geological 
and Polytechnic Society of the West Riding of Yorkshire. 
Close observation has induced me to think that beyond 
electricity, there exists a force which we cannot distinctly 
perceive as yet, but which is gradually being developed to 
our imperfect senses, and, that, to this force is due many of 
the phenomena which we now attribute to electrical power. 
We detect this force in action in all porous bodies ; indeed, 
there are evidences that it exists upon all surfaces, and, 
that, according to the mechanical structure of the surface, 
and consequently, the physical state — so is the exercise 
of this surface force. We know of no cause why granite 
and clay slate surfaces should be necessary to the forma- 
tion of the sulphurets of certain metals, or why limestone 
surfaces should induce the formation of another set of these 
combinations with sulphur. Electricity certainly does not 
aid us here. Again, we know of no electrical condition 
which would give rise to the deposition of sulphurets of 
copper, tin, or lead. It is not improbable but electricity 
may induce the required surface condition, but we want the 
evidence to render this certain. I lean rather to the belief 
that under the general terms of molecular, epipolic, asmosa, 
and catalytic forces, we are but expressing a set of phenomena 
which belong to a physical force, differing materially from 
any of those with which science has made us acquainted. 
My only excuse, for submitting such a very imperfect 
paper as this to the Society, is the hope that it may elicit 
discussion and examination ; and, in conclusion, allow me to 
solicit from the members of the Geological and Polytechnic 
Society of the West Riding, the favour of communications 
bearing, not merely on the formation of metalliferous veins, 
but on the coal and iron deposits of the county, my desire 
being to obtain as large an amount of information as possible 
on all the phenomena connected with mines and mining. 
