e._ the primary and
secondary of a binary system are each resolvable into two, forming two
pairs, each pair being in mutual revolution, while they both gravitate
round their common centre of gravity. Epsilon Lyrae, which has been
described as a double double, is an example of a quadruple system, and
Nu Scorpii is of a similar construction, but more beautiful because its
components are in closer proximity to each other. Close upon twenty of
those double double systems have been discovered in different parts of
the heavens.

One of the most interesting of quadruple systems is Theta Orionis, which
is situated in the Great Nebula, by which it is surrounded. This star,
when observed with a telescope of low power, can be at once resolved
into four separate lucent points, so arranged as to form a quadrilateral
figure or trapezium. They are of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth
magnitudes, and described as pale white, garnet, faint lilac, and red.
Though they have been under careful observation for upwards of two
centuries, no perceptible motion has been perceived as occurring among
them, nor has there been any change in their relative positions--they
appear to be perfectly motionless; but we must not infer from this that
no physical bond of union exists between them, for they are situated at
an amazing distance from the Earth. Ascending higher in the scale of
celestial architecture, we have multiple stars forming systems still
more elaborate and complex, into the structure of which numerous stars
enter, and they, as they increase in number, gradually merge into
star-clusters.

If we assume that around each of the components of a multiple star there
circles a retinue of planetary worlds, we are confronted with a most
perplexing problem as to how the dynamical stability of a system so
different from, and so vastly more complicated than, that of our solar
system is maintained--where, as it were, suns and planets
intermingle--how numerous circling orbs can accomplish their revolutions
without being swayed and deflected from their paths by the gravitational
attraction of adjacent members of the same system. Perplexing though the
arrangement of such a scheme may be to our conception, yet, each orb has
been weighed, poised, and adjusted by Infinite Wisdom, to perform its
intricate motions in synchronous harmony with other members of the
system--all moving in unison like the parts of a complicated piece of
mechanism, and maintain