In algebra infinite series occur when the object which it is wanted to represent in algebraical terms cannot be grasped by algebra. When there is no single term or set of them in algebra which will serve, the object is represented by means of an infinite series. Thus we may say that in any calculus, when the object to be treated of cannot be expressed in the terms of the calculus, it is represented by means of an infinite series. Now, dealing with material considerations, going on in the calculus of matter, we have come to an infinite series. This indicates that we have gone as far as the material calculus will carry us. We have now to bring in an idea from a different quarter if we will simplify our expression. It may well be that within our experience there is nothing which will serve. But let us suppose that that which in material terms we represent as an infinite series is a will—a will in contact with all existence, as shown by the properties it had when we conceived it as an ultimate medium. For, regarding it as an ultimate substance, we found that it would be affected by pulsations infinitely quicker than light and electricity; considered as a substance, it was such that distance to it tended to be annihilated. Hence as a will we must say of it that to it all that is is present—a will which by a fiat that to our notions is being acted on rather than acting, accepting pain rather than taking pleasure, sets the course of the world in motion, which holds all in one system, which creates all activities. For although we apprehend this will relatively to the appearances which we suppose we know, mechanical energy and feeling, still we see that both are caused by it, and that the sum of both is nothing, save for that which this will is in them. Is there any other way of apprehending this will than through the external world? We have two apprehensions of nature—one of external things, the other of our own wills. Does this will not exist in those who are true personalities, and not mere pleasure-led creatures?—have they not some of this power, the power of accepting, suffering, of determining absolutely what shall be?—a creative power which, given to each who possesses it, makes him a true personality, distinct, and not to be merged in any other—a power which determines the chain of mechanical actions, of material sequences—which creates it in the very same way in which it seems to be coming to an end—by that which, represented in material terms, is the absorption of energy into an ultimate medium; which, represented in terms of sensation, is suffering; but which in itself is absolute being, though only to be known by us as a negation of negations. CHAPTER VII.