Arago tells that at the same age fresnel was called by his comrades a "man of genius," because he had determined by correct experiments "the length and caliber of children's elder-wood toy cannon giving the longest range; also, which green or dry woods used in the manufacture of bows have most strength and lasting power."
"Essay on the Creative Imagination"
Th. Ribot
This curious case of difference was tried as soon as the opposing consequences of the two theories were noted by M. fresnel, and the result is stated by him to be decisive in favour of that theory which makes light to consist in the vibrations of an elastic medium.
"Logic, Inductive and Deductive"
William Minto
The light-house is much visited in summer, especially by those of a romantic turn, and by those to whom its winding stairs, huge tanks of oil, and powerful fresnel, possess the charm of novelty.
"Nooks and Corners of the New England Coast"
Samuel Adams Drake