A Bolder Teleology 493 



slow and uncertain movement. Now, in deep water, we spread large 

 canvas to a favouring breeze. 



The scattered traces of design might be forgotten or obliterated. 

 But the broad impression of Order became plainer when seen at due 

 distance and in sufficient range of effect, and the evidence of love 

 and wisdom in the universe could be trusted more securely for the 

 loss of the particular calculation of their machinery. 



Many other topics of faith are affected by modern biology. In 

 some of these we have learnt at present only a wise caution, a wise 

 uncertainty. We stand before the newly unfolded spectacle of 

 suffering, silenced ; with faith not scientifically reassured but still 

 holding fast certain other clues of conviction. In many important 

 topics we are at a loss. But in others, and among them those I have 

 mentioned, we have passed beyond this negative state and find faith 

 positively strengthened and more fully expressed. 



We have gained also a language and a habit of thought more 

 fit for the great and dark problems that remain, less liable to 

 damaging conflicts, equipped for more rapid assimilation of know- 

 ledge. And by this change biology itself is a gainer. For, relieved 

 of fruitless encounters with popular religion, it may advance with 

 surer aim along the path of really scientific life-study which was 

 reopened for modern men by the publication of The Origin of Species. 



Charles Darwin regretted that, in following science, he had not 

 done "more direct good 1 " to his fellow-creatures. He has, in fact, 

 rendered substantial service to interests bound up with the daily 

 conduct and hopes of common men ; for his work has led to improve- 

 ments in the preaching of the Christian faith. 



1 Life and Letters, Vol. HI. p. 359. 



