Re: VMs: 17

[RSRICHMOND@xxxxxxx]

Carl Friedrich Gauss in 1796 discovered a mathematical formula that generates 
the numbers of a series of regular polygons that can be constructed using the 
traditional  compass and straightedge. 3 and 5 are the first members of the 
series - constructing a pentagon is a bit of a feat in itself. Gauss first 
constructed a heptadecagon (17 sides), the next member of the series. The 
next member of the series is 257, and the next after that is much larger.
See
http://www.mathpages.com/home/kmath487.htm

Obviously this mathematical discovery is much too late to be relevant to the 
VMS. The formula generates Fermat primes (Pierre de Fermat, 1601-1665).

Then there's Booth Tarkington....

I don't know of any 17's in the heavens. 19 solar years are of course almost 
exactly the same in duration as 235 lunar months, and this metonic cycle (or 
machzor katan) has been widely used in calendars.

Bob Richmond
Knoxville, Tennessee
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