Now, in my opinion, they[161] do not seem to have even the least suspicion that the heavens and earth afford anything marvellous.

For, in the first place, the earth is situated in the middle part of the universe, and is surrounded on all sides by the air, which we breathe, and which is called "aer,"[162] which, indeed, is a Greek word; but by constant use it is well understood by our countrymen, for, indeed, it is employed as a Latin word.

The air is encompassed by the boundless ether (sky), which consists of the fires above.

This word we borrow also, for we use _aether_ in Latin as well as _aer;_ though Pacuvius thus expresses it, -- This, of which I speak, In Latin's _coelum_, _aether_ call'd in Greek.
As though he were not a Greek into whose mouth he puts this sentence; but he is speaking in Latin, though we listen as if he were speaking Greek; for, as he says elsewhere, His speech discovers him a Grecian born.
But to return to more important matters.

In the sky innumerable fiery stars exist, of which the sun is the chief, enlightening all with his refulgent splendor, and being by many degrees larger than the whole earth; and this multitude of vast fires are so far from hurting the earth, and things terrestrial, that they are of benefit to them; whereas, if they were moved from their stations, we should inevitably be burned through the want of a proper moderation and temperature of heat.
XXXVII.