We have, previous to the appearance of life, only mechanical, chemical, thermal, electrical energies to be equilibrated, and the fact that this equilibration has been taking place for incalculable ages --- long enough for the most exacting induction --- on a plane quite other and lower than that of the organic world. We have not the least suggestion of any equilibration among purely physical forces that at all corresponds to life. When, therefore, that peculiar combination known as a living organism, and that plastic power known as life, are, in the outset, assumed under the term equilibration, we have a foreshadowing of the kind of steps that are to be taken. Observe the magnitude of the assumption. A power or powers of some sort, so restless, so varied, so antagonistic, that two great kingdoms are to be built up out of their persistent and changeable efforts at equilibration with a comparatively fixed, physical environment are obscurely taken in by a mere word as the foundation of this immense superstructure. Surely one-half of the ground is assumed in the first term by which the theory gets expression. Equilibration implies extended, subtle, changeable tendencies, matching themselves at many points with the physical forces about them, and so building up in delicate yet ephemeral adjustments ten thousand wonderful products. How few words it takes to indicate and to give a scientific gloss to this magnificent series of facts, without in the least explaining it!

The birth of time is here indicated by the one word equilibration. Physical forces had been equilibrated for countless aeons without life, and when