6. The proof then, of this conclusion is obvious. For, if those which we usually term the primary elements of all,—the earth, water, air, and fire, were themselves the constituent portions of the universe, and are constituted of a mixed nature, which we even see with our eyes is the case,—and, if the essence of all were one, and that comprehending the whole, and were (as) the Mother and Nurse (of all these things), as those who are subtle in these matters love to term it; and were without figure and visibility, and wholly destitute of soul and of reason;— Whence, one may ask, was it, that this world was made to consist of that of which it now does? Whence also the distinction of the (several) elements ? And whence the

concordant course of those things which were adverse to agreement ? And, Who commanded this heavy element of earth, to ride over that of humid matter ?