our Horizon, we say it is Rising; and when it is got quite above it, we say it is Risen, or is Up. On the contrary if it appear towards the Western Edge of it we say it is Setting; and when it is gotten below it, we say it is Set. And this Rising and Setting always respects the sensible, and not the Real Horizon.
But what is the meaning of these Circles, demands she, which I see drawn here upon the Board of the Horizon, and on both Globes alike?
The outermost of them, Madam, Sea-Compass. said I, represents the Points of the Compass, as they are called by our Seamen; who make use of an Instrument called the Compass, to steer their Ships by at Sea.
Pray let me know a little more of that matter, said she, for 'tis a Thing I have heard much talk of.
You have seen, no doubt, Madam, said I, a Loadstone; and know that it hath that wonderful Virtue, among others as strange, that if a Needle or long Iron-Wire be drawn rightly over it, that Needle will ever after that, when at liberty, point, as they call it, due North and South.
You
