1857.] Science and the Bible. 467
mathematical
solids, called crystals; as complete in the first molecule as in the
large aggregation, and therefore without any true growth.
2.
Capable of change by the reaction of its own and external forces
of combination or aggregation, but not by reproduction in cyclical
order.
3.
Forces characterized by an oppositeness in opposite directions, or
what is called polarity ; illustrated in the laws of attraction or
combination, electricity, magnetism, light, heat. From crystallization,
the true organizing process in dead matter, we learn that the three
diameters of a prism correspond to axial directions of polarity; so
that the prism, in view of the different polarities of its sides, may
be said to have an upper and a lower surface, a right and a left, a
front and a back.
4.
Forces acting by undulations, or an alternateness of movement. The
phenomena of light are connected with these undulations. The law of
alternateness in the action of force is exemplified also in the
cleavage of crystals and the symmetry of parts in many inorganic
formations.
5.
Forces characterized, in some actions, by a spirality of movement,
shown by the dependence of magnetism on the spiral flow or activity of
the electric force.
6.
A universal sympathy, through all matter; not merely in the direct
action of attraction, but, more comprehensively, in a mutual reaction
of all forces tending to mutual modification or change, and a certain
mean condition as a result of the reaction: — As when two bodies,
unequally heated, force one another, through this interaction, to some
mean temperature, the particular value of the mean being dependent on
the rate of cooling in each, as well as the temperature in
laws
of those forces. Light, heat, electricity as in the lightning,
attraction, have been exhibited in common phenomena ever since the
world began. Nature cannot keep her forces secret; but the modes of
their action or their laws she holds concealed, until they are sought
out by truth-loving man. So perfectly is this now understood, and so
thoroughly has science searched nature, measured and weighed her
powers, and blended them together in one, that the future discovery of
a new power in nature is as probable as that the philosopher's stoue
will yet come to light.
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