378 “ Evolution as applied to the - [July, 
The theory that elements are multiples of H evades proof 
and disproof, because it attributes observed fractions to ex- 
perimental errors. But why should a new re-partition of a 
sum of matter, breaking up the unity H into fractions, not 
be a requirement of elementary mutation and evolution ? 
Must it not follow from the mutual action and development 
of cosmic systems and masses ? Do atomic weights repre- 
sent dead weight only ? Do they not include a tendency 
of motion imparted from a distance, and affedting different 
atoms differently under equal or similar circumstances ? 
Should we not bear in mind, in framing hypotheses of pro- 
gressive growth and development of nebulas, systems, cosmic 
masses, strata, molecules, and atoms, that looking round on 
earth, the home of all our experiences, and analysing the lights 
from heaven, we find some elements universal, others pre- 
dominant, others frequent, less frequent, rare, and very 
rare ? Must not the extent and frequency of formations 
correspond to that of causations ? Is it, then, rational to 
represent evolution by an indiscriminate tabulation of ele- 
ments, according to an assumed law of multiplicity of H ? 
I do not believe my hypothesis infallible, but in the right 
direction. I use the atomic weights accepted by Berzelius 
and Wohler, except where stated otherwise, without pre- 
tending them to be free from error. 
Hydrogen and hydrocarbons seem to entirely constitute 
some nebulae and comets, masses in a nascent state. Nebulae 
consist of gases, liquids, and solids. First H and 0 , then 
C and N. These elements compose almost exclusively our 
atmosphere and ocean, and enter largely in organisms and 
solids. OH = Aq, exceptional in many respedts, is all- 
present in every form. 
The relation of H, 0 , C, and N without fractions, made 
into a metaphysical toy, is not without interest. Equivalent 
H = i is composed of two atoms, mathematical points 
grown magnitudes; spaces become force, energy, mutual 
motion, attraction, and repulsion. Two such points describe 
and form a straight line, a dimension, of absolute length 2, 
— the equivalency H. Three such lines combine to a cube 
of energy, a volume, the space of three dimensions, 
2 3 = 8 = 0, oxygen ; the volume 0 coincident with a sphere 
is equal in size and form to one of the original points 
become magnitude and force, for the gas volume of H to 
that of 0 is = 2 : i. 
In weight 8H = 0 ; (8 + 8-2)H = i2 = C ; 
(8 + 8-2 + (8*2)*2)H = 14 = N. 
