But more. Even where there is authentic evidence of such symbols being used in ecclesiastical inscriptions, the forms of them will tell nothing. For generally in such cases an antique form of symbol would be assumed, if it were the alteration of a "learned clerk;" or the arabesque taste of the carver of the inscription would be displayed in grotesque forms. We would rather look for genuine than coeval symbols of this kind upon tombs and monuments, and the altar, than upon the building itself; and these will furnish collateral proofs of the genuineness of the entire inscriptions rather than any other class of architectural remains. The evidence of the inscriptions on "Balks and beams" in old manorial dwellings is especially to be suspected.
T.S.D.
Shooter's Hill, Feb 11, 1850.
Footnote 1:[(return)]
In vol. iii. of the same work is another paper by the same author, entitled, "Conjectures respecting the Origin of Alphabetic writing," pp. 365-384. Reference to these papers is principally made, not on the ground of any assumed merit, but because all that has been written on any given subject ought, if possible, to be brought before the minds of those engaged in the prosecution of the inquiry./p>
Arabic Numerals.—If you think the following title will do for your correspondent "E.V." (No. 15. p. 230.), please to communicate it to him:
"Mannert, K., de Numerorum, quos arabicos voc., vera origine pythagorico; e. Fig. aen. 8vo. Nürnberg, 1801."
Oscar Heun.
Cambridge, Feb. 11. 1850.
Arabic Numerals (No. 15. p. 230.).—Your correspondent should consult Peacock's "History of Arithmetic" in the Encyclopædia Metropolitana; and, if he can get them, the notes to Chasles' Aperçu Historique des Méthodes en Géométric, and various papers of Mr. Chasles, published in the Comptes Rendus of the French Institute. He may perhaps find some information in De Morgan's Arithmetical Books, particularly at p. 14.
M.