" Such is
accordingly the accepted designation of that mighty globe which
revolves in the track that at present seems to trace out the
frontiers of our system.
Le Verrier attained so much fame by this discovery, that when, in
1854, Arago's place had to be filled at the head of the great Paris
Observatory, it was universally felt that the discoverer of Neptune
was the suitable man to assume the office which corresponds in France
to that of the Astronomer Royal in England. It was true that the
work of the astronomical mathematician had hitherto been of an
abstract character. His discoveries had been made at his desk and
not in the observatory, and he had no practical acquaintance with the
use of astronomical instruments. However, he threw himself into the
technical duties of the observatory with vigour and determination. He
endeavoured to inspire the officers of the establishment with
enthusiasm for that systematic work which is so necessary for the
accomplishment of useful astronomical research. It must, however, be
admitted that Le Verrier was not gifted with those natural qualities
which would make him adapted for the successful administration of
such an establishment. Unfortunately disputes arose between the
Director and his staff.
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