BOOK I PART IV
tence, or otherwise lose, in a great measure, the
regularity of their operation. I am here seated
in my chamber with my face to the fire; and all
the objects, that strike my senses, are contained
in a few yards around me. My memory, indeed,
informs me of the existence of many objects;
but then this information extends not beyond
their past existence, nor do either my senses
or memory give any testimony to the contin-
uance of their being. When therefore I am thus
seated, and revolve over these thoughts, I hear
on a sudden a noise as of a door turning upon
its hinges; and a little after see a porter, who
advances towards me. This gives occasion to
many new reflections and reasonings. First,
I never have observed, that this noise coued
proceed from any thing but the motion of a
door; and therefore conclude, that the present
phaenomenon is a contradiction to all past ex-