300. On this Theory so far as we have explained it, the Tides ought to be highest directly under and opposite to the Moon; that is, when the Moon is due north and south. But we find, that in open Seas, where the water flows freely, the Moon _M_ is generally past the north and south Meridian as at _p_ when it is high water at _Z_ and at _n_. The reason is obvious; for though the Moon’s attraction was to cease altogether when she was past the Meridian, yet the motion of ascent communicated to the water before that time would make it continue to rise for some time after; much more must it do so when the attraction is only diminished: as a little impulse given to a moving ball will cause it still move farther than otherwise it could have done. And as experience shews, that the day is hotter about three in the afternoon, than when the Sun is on the Meridian, because of the increment made to the heat already imparted. [Sidenote: Nor always answer to her being at the same distance from it.] 301. The Tides answer not always to the same distance of the Moon from the Meridian at the same places; but are variously affected by the action of the Sun, which brings them on sooner when the Moon is in her first and third Quarters, and keeps them back later when she is in her second and fourth: because, in the former case, the Tide raised by the Sun alone would be earlier than the Tide raised by the Moon; and in the latter case later. [Sidenote: Spring and neap Tides. PLATE IX. Fig. VI.]