. On Einstein's theory the deflection would be just twice this amount,
. But it was thought quite possible that the result might be neither
nor
but zero, and Professor Eddington remarked before setting out on the recent expedition that a zero result, however disappointing immediately, might ultimately turn out the most fruitful of all. That was less than a year ago. Perhaps a few dates are worth remembering. Einstein's theory was fully developed and stated in November, 1915, but news of it did not reach England (owing to the War) for some months. In 1917 the Astronomer Royal pointed out the special suitability of the Total Solar Eclipse of May, 1919, as an occasion for testing Einstein's Theory. Preparations for two Expeditions were commenced—Mr. Hinks described the geographical conditions on the central line in November, 1917—but could not be fully in earnest until the Armistice of November, 1918. In November, 1919, the entirely satisfactory outcome was announced to the Royal Society and characterized by the President as necessitating a veritable revolution in scientific thought.
But when Mr. Brose brought me his translation of the pamphlet in the spring of 1919, the issue was still in doubt. He had become deeply interested in the new theory while interned in Germany as a civilian prisoner and had there made this translation. I encouraged him to publish it and opened negotiations to that end, but it was not until we enlisted the sympathy of Professor Eddington (on his return from the Expedition) and approached the Cambridge Press that a feasible plan of publication was found. Professor Eddington would have been a far more appropriate introducer; and it is only in deference to his own express wish that I have ventured to take up the pen that he would have used to much better purpose. One advantage I reap from the decision: I can express the thanks of Mr. Brose and myself to him for his practical help, and perhaps I may add those of a far wider circle for his own able expositions of an intricate theory, which have done so much to make it known in England.
H. H. TURNER