[Page 98]
"Let a power be delegated to a finite spirit equal to the projection
of the most ponderous planet in its orbit, and, from an exhaustless
magazine, let this spirit select his grand central orb. Let him with
puissant arm locate it in space, and, obedient to his mandate, there
let it remain forever fixed. He proceeds to select his planetary
globes, which he is now required to marshal in their appropriate
order of distance from the sun. Heed well this distribution; for
should a single globe be misplaced, the divine harmony is destroyed
forever. Let us admit that finite intelligence may at length determine
the order of combination; the mighty host is arrayed in order.
These worlds, like fiery coursers, stand waiting the command to
fly. But, mighty spirit, heed well the grand step, ponder well
the direction in which thou wilt launch each wailing world; weigh
well the mighty impulse soon to be given, for out of the myriads
of directions, and the myriads of impulsive forces, there comes
but a single combination that will secure the perpetuity of your
complex scheme. In vain does the bewildered finite spirit attempt
to fathom this mighty depth. In vain does it seek to resolve the
stupendous problem. It turns away, and while endued with omnipotent
power, exclaims, 'Give to me infinite wisdom, or relieve me from
the impossible task!'"-0. M. MITCHEL, LL. D.




[Page 99]
VI.

_THE PLANETS, AS SEEN FROM SPACE_