In other words, the quota of space
filled by each star is probably less in the region of the Milky
Way than it is near the centre where we seem to be situated.
We are, therefore, presented with what seems to be the most
extraordinary spectacle that the universe can offer, a ring of
stars spanning it, and including within its limits by far the
great majority of the stars within our system. We have in this
spectacle another example of the unity which seems to pervade the
system. We might imagine the latter so arranged as to show
diversity to any extent. We might have agglomerations of stars
like those of the Milky Way situated in some corner of the system,
or at its centre, or scattered through it here and there in every
direction. But such is not the case. There are, indeed, a few
star-clusters scattered here and there through the system; but
they are essentially different from the clusters of the Milky Way,
and cannot be regarded as forming an important part of the general
plan. In the case of the galaxy we have no such scattering, but
find the stars built, as it were, into this enormous ring, having
similar characteristics throughout nearly its whole extent, and
having within it a nearly uniform scattering of stars, with here
and there some collected into clusters.
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