ALPHEUS HYATT. 



later forms the spines and tubercles and ornaments gradually 

 disappear, the frills and folds in the septa become reduced, and 

 there is a return to the primitive simplicity of the group, to- 

 gether with loss of symmetry and the appearance of abnormality 

 and distortion. 



Hyatt interpreted this remarkable history as a life cycle, con- 

 sisting of infancy, childhood, manhood, and old age, ending in 

 death or the extermination of the group of ammonites. It was 

 in no figurative way that Hyatt illustrated the history of the 

 ammonites by the life of an individual organism. He regarded 

 it as an illustration of the great law according to which new 

 species of living beings come into existence. As modern views 

 of organic evolution prevailed, Hyatt made many modifications 

 of the old-age theory in order to bring it into harmony with the 

 progress of knowledge. I have studied his more recent writings 

 upon the subject with all the diligence that my great respect 

 and admiration for him demanded, I have listened attentively 

 when he has discussed his views in public, and I have had many 

 private talks with him about them, but I do not understand 

 them. 



As a man, Hyatt was dignified, courteous, kindly, and ap- 

 proachable, making no distinction of persons. He retained to 

 the end the love and admiration of the companions of his student 

 days. His patience and persistency in overcoming opposition 

 and in scientific research were as great as they well could lie. 



o \j 



He met adverse criticism with unruffled calmness and good 

 nature. Incivility and discourtesy he met with astonishment, 

 but without rancor. He gave just cause of offense to no one. 

 N~aturally gentle, he yet stood firmly for justice and right, in 

 peace as well as in war, and he was always ready to do battle 

 in a righteous cause when friendship called for action. 



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