8. Number measures all measureables.
This further is observable in number, that it is that which the mind makes
use of in measuring all things that by us are measurable, which principally are expansion and duration; and our
idea of infinity, even when applied to those, seems to be nothing but the infinity of number. For what else are our
ideas of Eternity and Immensity, but the repeated additions of certain ideas of imagined parts of duration and
expansion, with the infinity of number; in which we can come to no end of addition? For such an inexhaustible
stock, number (of all other our ideas) most clearly furnishes us with, as is obvious to every one. For let a man
collect into one sum as great a number as he pleases, this multitude, how great soever, lessens not one jot the
power of adding to it, or brings him any nearer the end of the inexhaustible stock of number; where still there
remains as much to be added, as if none were taken out. And this endless addition or addibility (if any one like the
word better) of numbers, so apparent to the mind, is that, I think, which gives us the clearest and most distinct
idea of infinity: of which more in the following chapter.
