of Edinburgh, Session 1883-84. 
troo 
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light. Effects apparently or at least conceivably due to this cause 
have been obtained by various experimenters. 
If we could realise a dynamical system, analogous to that of a gas 
on the kinetic theory, but such that none of the particles could have 
any but one of a certain limited number of definite speeds, and if 
there were still a tendency to the nearest statistical average, we 
should have something capable of explaining phosphoresence at 
ordinary temperatures. 
2. On the Need for Decimal Subdivisions in Astronomy and 
Navigation, and on Tables requisite therefor. By 
Edward Sang, LL.D. 
The abstract question as to what number would have been most 
advantageously taken for the basis of an arithmetical system has 
been put aside by the universal preference shown for the number 
ten. All nations having any culture count in tens. In the English 
language, traces remain of the old numeration by dozens and scores j 
the French still prefer to say “ quatre-vingt seize,” rather than 
“ nonante-six.” These vestiges serve to. show that there has been 
change. But from the old Eastern languages all traces of any but 
the denary counting have disappeared. 
It is in vain to argue that the number twelve is divisible by three 
and by four, or that the perfect number six has the preference ; for, 
however strong the arguments may be, there is no likelihood that 
they shall overturn the universally adopted mode. Nay, when, 
purely as arithmeticians, we come to look into the matter, and 
consider the needs and capabilities of mankind, we find arguments 
of no mean weight in favour of the denary mode. 
But, whatever question there may be about the convenience of 
one or of another basis, there can be no question as to the principle 
of uniformity in the plan. To count our money in dozens and 
scores, our weights in sevens, and our distances in elevens, must 
necessarily entail trouble and confusion. Our unreasoning adher- 
ence to the medley of British monies, weights, and measures, is 
indeed a subject of wonder. If there be fourteen pounds to the 
stone, why not fourteen ounces to the pound ? Five and a half 
yards go to a perch, why not five perches and a half to the furlong ? 
( 
