I cannot prove synthetically the existence of the principle of
action, the prime mover, the Supreme Being, as Dr. Clarke does. If
this method were in the power of man, Clarke was, perhaps, worthy to
employ it; but analysis seems to me more suitable for our poor ideas.
It is only by ascending the stream of eternity that I can attempt to
reach its source.
Having therefore recognised from movement that there is a mover;
having proved from action that there is a principle of action; I
seek the nature of this universal principle. And the first thing I
perceive, with secret distress but entire resignation, is that, being
an imperceptible part of the great whole; being, as Plato says in the
_Timæus_, a point between two eternities; it will be impossible for
me to understand this great whole, which hems me in on every side,
and its master.
Yet I am a little reassured on seeing that I am able to measure
the distance of the stars, and to recognise the course and the laws
which keep them in their orbits. I say to myself: Perhaps, if I use
my reason in good faith, I may succeed in discovering some ray of
probability to lighten me in the dark night of nature. And if this
faint dawn which I seek does not come to me, I shall be consoled
to think that my ignorance is invincible; that knowledge which is
forbidden me is assuredly useless to me; and that the great Being
will not punish me for having sought a knowledge of him and failed to
obtain it.