f course, in size and velocity. As a result of this circular movement
the particles of matter tend to become globular from contact with one
another. Two species of matter are thus formed, one larger and globular,
which continue their circular motion with a constant tendency to fly
from the centre of the axis of rotation, the other composed of the
clippings resulting from the grinding process. These smaller "filings"
from the main bodies, becoming smaller and smaller, gradually lose their
velocity and accumulate in the centre of the vortex. This collection of
the smaller matter in the centre of the vortex constitutes the sun or
star, while the spherical particles propelled in straight lines from the
centre towards the circumference of the vortex produce the phenomenon
of light radiating from the central star. Thus this matter becomes the
atmosphere revolving around the accumulation at the centre. But the
small particles being constantly worn away from the revolving spherical
particles in the vortex, become entangled in their passage, and when
they reach the edge of the inner strata of solar dust they settle upon
it and form what we call sun-spots. These are constantly dissolved and
reformed, until sometimes they form a crust round the central nucleus.

As the expansive force of the star diminishes in the course of time,
it is encroached upon by neighboring vortices. If the part of the
encroaching star be of a less velocity than the star which it has swept
up, it will presently lose its hold, and the smaller star pass out of
range, becoming a comet. But if the velocity of the vortex into which
the incrusted star settles be equivalent to that of the surrounded
vortex, it will hold it as a captive, still revolving and "wrapt in its
own firmament." Thus the several planets of our solar system have
been captured and held by the sun-vortex, as have the moon and other
satellites.

But although these new theories at first created great enthusiasm among
all classes of philosophers and scientists, they soon came under the
ban of the Church. While no actual harm came to Descartes himself, his
writings were condemned by the Catholic and Protestant churches alike.
The spirit of philosophical inquiry he had engendered, however, lived
on, and is largely responsible for modern philosophy.

In many ways the life and works of Leibnitz remind us of Bacon rather
than Descartes. His life was spent in filling high political positions,
and h