We are binding the universe together by agencies which
pass from sun to planet and from star to star. We are determined
to find out all we can about the mysterious ethereal medium
supposed to fill all space, and which conveys light and heat from
one heavenly body to another, but which yet evades all direct
investigation. We are peering into the law of gravitation itself
with the full hope of discovering something in its origin which
may enable us to evade its action. From time to time philosophers
fancy the road open to success, yet nothing that can be
practically called success has yet been reached or even
approached. When it is reached, when we are able to state exactly
why matter gravitates, then will arise the question how this
hitherto unchangeable force may be controlled and regulated. With
this question answered the problem of the interaction between
ether and matter may be solved. That interaction goes on between
ethers and molecules is shown by the radiation of heat by all
bodies. When the molecules are combined into a mass, this
interaction ceases, so that the lightest objects fly through the
ether without resistance. Why is this? Why does ether act on the
molecule and not the mass? When we can produce the latter, and
when the mutual action can be controlled, then may gravitation be
overcome and then may men build, not merely airships, but ships
which shall fly above the air, and transport their passengers from
continent to continent with the speed of the celestial motions.
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