e deliberation and
much careful thought, I have discovered the method for finding [lambda].
This method is _mesmerism_. We find the ratio of brain to brain--the
relative strength which one bears to another; and then by an application
of our formula we can actually determine the wave of thought, and read
the minds of our fellow-creatures. An unbounded field for reflection and
speculation is here suggested. Like all great discoveries, the elements
of the problem have unconsciously been utilized by many who are unable
to account for their method of procedure. For example, thought-readers,
mesmerists, and the like, have unconsciously been working on this
principle, although lack of mathematical training has prevented them
from fully mastering the details of the problem. Hence in popular minds
a kind of mystery has hung about the actions of such people, and excited
the curiosity of mankind.

The development of this theory of brain waves may be of great practical
utility to the world. It shows that great care ought to be exercised in
the domain of thought, as well as that of speech. For example: A man has
made a startling discovery, from which he expects to receive
considerable worldly advantage. He would be careful not to disclose his
discovery in speech to his acquaintances until his plans are
sufficiently matured, lest they should impart it to the world, patent
his device, and reap the reward. But while he is endeavouring to talk
carelessly about it, the wave of thought may be travelling from brain to
brain, suggesting the existence of the discovery; and if the conditions
are favourable, and [lambda] sufficiently small, it is possible that the
idea itself may be conveyed. Of course the more complicated the
discovery, the less likely would the wave convey the conception. Or
suppose that one of the learned professorial body of our sister
university should conceive an attachment for a lady-student of Girtham
College (of course a very improbable supposition!), and the infatuated
_savant_ became somewhat jealous of another learned lecturer of the same
college (another improbability!), the fact of his jealousy would be
imparted to the latter by a wave of thought, and might cause
considerable confusion in the serene course of love or science. The fact
of the existence of the wave is indisputable. What do all the stories of
impressions and double-sight teach us? How could the intelligence of the
death of Professor Steele have been