evanescent quantities is to be understood the ratio of the quantities, not before they vanish, not afterwards, but with which they vanish. In like manner, the first ratio of nascent quantities is that with which they begin to be.” From this answer, which is so clear and so deep, it is manifest that infinitesimals are real quantities. Whence we infer that every instant of duration which actually flows from _before_ to _after_ marks out a real infinitesimal interval of duration that might serve as a unit of measure for the mensuration of all finite intervals of succession, were it not that we cannot reckon up to infinity. Nevertheless, it does not follow that an infinitesimal duration is an absolute unit of duration; for it is still continuous, even in its infinite smallness; and accordingly it is still divisible and mensurable by other units of a lower standard. Thus it is clear that the measurement of flowing duration, and indeed of all other continuous quantity, cannot be made except by some arbitrary and conventional unit. THE STARS. As I gaze in silent wonder On the countless stars of night, Looking down in mystic stillness With their soft and magic light Seem they from my eyes retreating With their vast and bright array, Till they into endless distance Almost seem to fade away. And my thoughts are carried with them To their far-off realms of light; Yet they seem retreating ever, Ever into endless night. Whither leads that silent army, With its noiseless tread and slow? And those glittering bands, who are they? Thus my thoughts essay to know. But my heart the secret telleth That to thee, my God, they guide; That they are thy gleaming watchmen, Guarding round thy palace wide. Then, when shall those gates be opened To receive my yearning soul, Where its home shall be for ever, While the countless ages roll? Thou alone, O God! canst know it: Till then doth my spirit pine. Father! keep thy child from falling, Till for ever I am thine. WILLIAM TELL AND ALTORF.