19
This total separation of the two parts constituting the whole, and as might be thought the less dignified position of the latter, will find in the following circumstance a sufficient explanation.
A theory which asserts itself to be an enduring and fruitful one, must in all its consequences be in accordance with observation and experiment.
It seems to me that with respect to the first of the above-mentioned parts, this is sufficiently established, partly by the previous experiments of others, and partly by some performed by myself, which first made me acquainted with the theory here developed, and subsequently rendered me entirely devoted to it. Such is not the case with regard to the second part. A more accurate experimental verification is in this case still required, for which I have neither time nor means; and therefore it is for the present set in a corner, from whence, if it prove to be worth the trouble, it may be hereafter withdrawn, and may then also be further matured under better nursing.
