The Infinites of Matter

1

If matter be no more than we do see,2
This world, I pray, what must beyond it be?3
For sure this world is limited4 and bound,
And like a ball is made in compass5 round.
And if that matter with which the world’s6 made       5
Be7 infinite, then more worlds may be said.
Then8 infinites of worlds there may be found,9
If infinite of matter has no bound.10

  1. In 1664 and 1668 this poem is called “Of Infinite Matter”
  2. If matter be no more than we do see,] If all the World were a confused heape, 1653
  3. This World, I pray, what must beyond it be?] What was beyond? for this World is not great: 1653
  4. For sure this world is limited] We finde it Limit hath, 1653
  5. is made in compass] in compasse is made 1653
  6. And if that matter with which the world’s] But Matter, out of which the World is 1664, 1668
  7. Be] If 1664, 1668
  8. Then] Nay, 1664, 1668
  9. there may be found,] may we agree, 1653
  10. If infinite of matter has no bound.] As well, as Infinites of Matters bee. 1653