157 



CHAPTER VI. 



THE GENERIC THEORY. 



How glorious to the observant eye is the great system 

 of the organic world, how perfect in each separate part, 

 how complete and harmonious the whole ! The unity 

 of the comprehensive plan, amidst the infinite modifica- 

 tions which it includes, has ever been a theme of admi- 

 ration and delight ; for the mind, which has once caught 

 a glimpse, even in physics, of what it is not possible to 

 disprove, instinctively clings to it, as to a grand material 

 truth. The discovery, at all times, of what we feel to 

 be actually certain is in itself so fascinating, that the very 

 data which it gives us are scarcely more prized than the 

 mere knowledge that we have gained a single additional 

 light to guide us on our forward way : for, since in the 

 inductive sciences we can but climb from step to step, 

 at a slow and even pace, we hail with inward satisfaction 

 whatsoever may tend to lighten our task, and to lead us 

 more quickly onwards (gradually though we must of 

 necessity advance) towards its final accomplishment. 



But how, it may be asked, is this general harmony of 

 the organic creation to be insisted upon, when beings so 

 extravagant and dissimilar are everywhere to be met 



