II-3

William Gilbert (1544–1603) (1544–1603)

First, then, know,Ceaseless effluvia from the magnet flow,—Effluvia, whose superior powers expelThe air that lies between the stone and steel.A vacuum formed, the steely atoms flyIn a link'd train, and all the void supply;While the whole ring to which the train is join'dThe influence owns, and follows close behind. &c.