In the dark you may see it make the same appearance as it does in the case before mentioned."(3) Von Guericke, Hauksbee, and Gray had noticed that pointed bodies attracted electricity in a peculiar manner, but this demonstration of the "drawing off" of "electrical fire" was original with Franklin.
Original also was the theory that he now suggested, which had at least the merit of being thinkable even by non-philosophical minds.

It assumes that electricity is like a fluid, that will flow along conductors and accumulate in proper receptacles, very much as ordinary fluids do.

This conception is probably entirely incorrect, but nevertheless it is likely to remain a popular one, at least outside of scientific circles, or until something equally tangible is substituted.
FRANKLIN'S THEORY OF ELECTRICITY According to Franklin's theory, electricity exists in all bodies as a "common stock," and tends to seek and remain in a state of equilibrium, just as fluids naturally tend to seek a level.

But it may, nevertheless, be raised or lowered, and this equilibrium be thus disturbed.

If a body has more electricity than its normal amount it is said to be POSITIVELY electrified; but if it has less, it is NEGATIVELY electrified.