MAGNECRYSTALLIC FORCE — SUPPOSITIONS AS TO ITS NATURE. 
31 
presented crystal ought to be attracted by a single pole, or the nearest of two poles ; 
but no action of this kind appears. 
2588. Or we might suppose that the crystal is a little more apt for magnetic in- 
duction, or a little less apt for diamagnetic induction, in the direction of the magne- 
crystallic axis than in other directions. But, if so, it should surely show polar attrac- 
tions in the case of the magnetic bodies, as sulphate of iron (2557- 2583.) ; and in 
the case of diamagnetic bodies, as bismuth, a difference in the degree of repulsion 
when presented wdth the magnecrystallic axis parallel and perpendicular to the lines 
of magnetic force (2552.) ; which it does not do. 
2589. 1 do not remember heretofore such a case of force as the present one, where 
a body is brought into position only, without attraction or repulsion. 
2590. If the power be induced, it must be like, generally, to its inducing predomi- 
nants ; and these are, at present, the magnetic and electric forces. If induced, sub- 
ject to the crystalline force (2577.)5 if must show an intimate relation between it and 
them. How hopeful we may be, therefore, that the results will help to throw open 
the doors which may lead us to a full knowledge of these powders (2146.), and the 
combined manner in which they dwell in the particles of matter, and exert their in- 
fluence in producing the vvonderful phenomena which they present. 
2591. I cannot resist throwing forth another view of these phenomena which may 
possibly be the true one. The lines of magnetic force may perhaps be assumed as 
in some degree resembling the rays of light, heat, &c. ; and may find difficulty in 
passing through bodies and so be affected by them, as light is affected. They may, 
for instance, when a crystalline body is interposed, pass more freely, or with less dis- 
turbance, through it in the direction of the magnecrystallic axis than in other 
directions. In that case, the position which the erystal takes in the magnetic field 
with its magnecrystallic axis parallel to the lines of magnetic force, may be the po- 
sition of no, or of least resistance ; and therefore the position of rest and stable 
equilibrium. All the diametral effects wmuld agree with this view. Then, just as 
the optie axis is to a ray of polarized light, namely, the direction in which it is not 
affected, so would the magnecrystallic axis be to the lines of magnetic force. If such 
were the case, then, also, as the phenomena are developed in crystalline bodies, we 
might hope for the discovery of a series of effects dependent upon retardation and 
influenee in direction, parallel to the beautiful phenomena presented by light with 
similar bodies. In making this supposition, I do not forget the points of inertia and 
momentum ; but such an idea as I can form of inertia does not exclude the above 
view as altogether irrational. I remember too, that, when a magnetic pole and a 
wire carrying an electric current are fastened together, so that one cannot turn with- 
out the other, if the one be made axis the other will revolve round and carry the first 
with it; and also, that if a magnet be floated in mercury and a current sent down it, 
the magnet will revolve by the powers which are within its mass. With my imperfect 
mathematical knowledge, there seems as much difficulty in these motions as in the 
