Book 8: Chapter 7 Summary

London Bridge, Aug. 19, 1714

Leibniz and Newton's disagreement rages and becomes volatile and Daniel changes the topic and focuses on pleasantries. Daniel recalls when Sir Isaac and Leibniz first met and the two men reminisce about old times, experiences shared, conversations had and acquaintances now passed. They bid each other farewell as Leibniz sails away aboard a Russian vessel bound for home.

Book 8: Chapter 7 Analysis

Leibniz tries ineffectively to undermine Sir Isaac's theories of space and time and that the Earth revolves around the sun. Tempers flare and Daniel discusses their lives and first meeting in such detail that he changes the philosophers' moods. As Sir Isaac and Leibniz reflect on their memories the reader understands that these men will not see each other in this lifetime again and this is goodbye.