"From this day natural philosophy, and particularly chemistry, in the most comprehensive sense of the term, became nearly my sole occupation. I read with ardour those works, so full of genius and discrimination, which modern enquirers have written on these subjects. I attended the lectures, and cultivated the acquaintance, of the men of science of the university; and I found even in M. Krempe a great deal of sound sense and real information, combined, it is true, with a repulsive physiognomy and manners, but not on that account the less valuable." Ch.4 (pg.29)


Studies of physical science and specifically physical and psychological interactions, in the most complete and basic understanding, have recently become my one and only interest and area of occupation. I study these subjects with the most passion and interest, because they are so full of intelligence and the best perception. Modern investigators have written information on these studies. I have gone to the events where they discuss these studies, I have gained and developed knowledge of these subjects from these various people. Even from M. Krempe, a professor of this natural philosophy, I discovered a lot that made clear sense to me and I had real information and an understanding of his information, put together, it is true, with a repulsive (revolting, distasteful) physiognomy (facial features and expressions), but not on those terms made less valuable.