ABSTRACT
I perceive this Universe, my dear friend, to be nothing but a multitude of blobs. These blobs are of all sizes and shapes, of varying hues and powers, and they are endowed with the most diverse natures, functions, and propensities. Their number appears to be infinite, but among them I discern some whose influence is more extended and whose movements are more active than the rest. These superior blobs demean themselves proudly towards their fellows, receive their obedience, and dictate to them their laws; they are blobs among blobs, the blobs par excellence, both in their own eyes, and in the eyes of the other blobs of this remarkable world.
