This objection, then, cannot be maintained, and we therefore decide that the universe had an origin. And all we know at present about the Force which originated it, is that it was a Free Force. And the conclusion at which we have arrived may be concisely expressed by saying, that before all natural causes which acted necessarily, there was a _First Cause_ which acted voluntarily. (_B._) THE CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE. We have next to consider what else we can ascertain in regard to this First Cause. To begin with it can scarcely be disputed at the present day that it was a _Single_ Cause, as modern science has completely established the unity which pervades the universe. We know for instance that the same materials are used everywhere, many of the elements which exist on this earth being also found in the sun and stars. Then there is the force of gravity, which is all-embracing, and applies equally to the most distant stars, and to the most minute objects on this earth; and many other examples might be given. But it is scarcely necessary, as everyone now admits that the universe (as the word implies) is one whole, and this plainly points to a _Single_ First Cause. Nor can it be disputed that this First Cause was _Supernatural_, which merely means that it differs from natural forces in being _free_; for this is exactly what we have shown. It was thus no kind of gravitation, or electricity, or anything of that sort. All these and all similar forces would always act the same under the same conditions; while the Force we are considering was of a different kind. It was a _Free_ Force, a Force which voluntarily chose to originate the universe at a certain time. And such a Force must clearly have been Supernatural. In conclusion we will call this _Single Supernatural Cause_, which originated the universe, its _Creator_. And if it be objected that the universe may have had no _origin_, owing to some Free Force having been always acting on it, such a Force must also be Single and Supernatural, and may equally well be called its Creator. CHAPTER II. THAT THE CREATOR DESIGNED THE UNIVERSE. Design means voluntary action, combined with foreknowledge. (_A._) EVIDENCE OF DESIGN. Seems overwhelming throughout organic nature; and we are not appealing to it to show the Creator's existence, but merely His foreknowledge. (1.) The example of a watch: its marks of design show that it had a maker who foresaw its use. (2.) The example of an eye: this also has marks of design, and must also have had a Designer. (3.) The evidence cumulative. (_B._) THE EVOLUTION OBJECTION. (1.) The meaning of Evolution: it is a process, not a cause. (2.) The effect of Evolution on the present argument: it increases the evidence for design. (_C._) THE FREE WILL OBJECTION.