When one listens to a real philosopher, one is certain to learn something that is either useful or agreeable, let the subject be what it may." "By the monikin philosophy, gentlemen," continued Dr.Reasono, "we divide the great component parts of this earth into land and water.
These two principles we term the primary elements.

Human philosophy has added air and fire to the list; but these we reject either entirely, or admit them only as secondary elements.

That neither air nor fire is a primary element, may be proved by experiment.

Thus, air can be formed, in the quality of gases, can be rendered pure or foul; is dependent on evaporation, being no more than ordinary matter in a state of high rarefaction.

Fire has no independent existence, requires fuel for its support, and is evidently a property that is derived from the combinations of other principles.