[A] This temperature is altogether erroneous, as we shall show in due time; at present our proof would not be accepted without a demonstration, for which we have not sufficient data.

[B] Here we beg to state that in all our coming operations, we will use the Centigrade Scale for temperatures without adding C to each number specified, unless a different scale has to be referred to, in which case the distinctive of the scale shall be given in the usual way. This we do because it is the fashion, not because we think it possesses any advantage over any other scale, but rather the contrary. Perhaps we may have something more to say about scales after we have handled the Centigrade a little more than it has been our lot to do hitherto.

[C] The exponent 18 in 150,523,772,692¹⁸ means that 18 cyphers have to be added to complete the number. The same is the case with any other number and exponent of large quantities.

[D] From the same source, date June 6, 1896, we learn that the greatest cold probably ever reached was -243·5° or 31·5° of so-called absolute temperature, but that will have very little effect on our calculations, and so it is not worth while altering them all to suit.

[E] Years after this was written we have seen it stated that the density of the ether has been calculated from the energy with which light from the sun strikes the earth, and that to represent it there are twenty-seven cyphers after the decimal point before the figures begin. But as this gives something like one thousand quadrillionth part of the density of water, we refuse to accept or even think of it.