But, as a matter of fact, no one has ever succeeded in giving an
indisputable mechanical representation of the whole physical world.
Even were we disposed to admit the strangest solutions of the problem;
to consent, for example, to be satisfied with the hidden systems
devised by Helmholtz, whereby we ought to divide variable things into
two classes, some accessible, and the others now and for ever unknown,
we should never manage to construct an edifice to contain all the
known facts. Even the very comprehensive mechanics of a Hertz fails
where the classical mechanics has not succeeded.
Deeming this check irremediable, many contemporary physicists give up
attempts which they look upon as condemned beforehand, and adopt, to
guide them in their researches, a method which at first sight appears
much more modest, and also much more sure. They make up their minds
not to see at once to the bottom of things; they no longer seek to
suddenly strip the last veils from nature, and to divine her supreme
secrets; but they work prudently and advance but slowly, while on the
ground thus conquered foot by foot they endeavour to establish
themselves firmly.
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