354 Eloge of Bar(yn Cuvier. 



and when these valuable qualities were united to a remarkable 

 clearness in the explanation of systems, a perfection in methodi- 

 cal arrangement, a precision, and an elegance such as had never 

 been witnessed in an equal degree in France, they conferred on 

 him so much reputation, that all Europe sought for and re- 

 ceived his instructions with full confidence and satisfaction ; 

 since they thus formed a most valuable connecting link between 

 ancient and modern science, and between national and foreign 

 literature. But I have already perhaps given too much exten- 

 sion to this part of my subject, notwithstanding my resolutions 

 to the contrary. I cannot, however, refrain from making some 

 remarks on one portion of M. Cuvier"'s scientific works, which 

 seems more within my reach than the rest. 



I select it, because it affords a clear explanation of his great 

 discovery in comparative anatomy, and exhibits the wonderful 

 results of that discovery, which throw such a flood of light on 

 geology, — a science, you are aware, which has been but recently 

 founded on secure principles. It must be perceived that I am 

 about to speak of the dissertation prefixed to his ^^5to^r^ c7^^ 

 Ossemens Fossiles, which has been so often reprinted. Accuracy 

 of views and reach of conception are conspicuous on every page 

 of that work. With what perspicuity does he explain and re- 

 view the various systems which have been successively promul- 

 gated for so many years, on the noblest subjects which can oc- 

 cupy the human faculties — those that relate to the wonders of 

 the creation, and the early condition of the world on which man 

 has been placed ! With what powers of reasoning does he op- 

 pose many of these views to each other, and shew their futility 

 by bringing together facts of the most simple and apparently 

 trivial nature ! 'How beautifully does he display the advantages 

 to be expected from pursuing the path he points out, and prose- 

 cuting researches which lead to such remote and important issues ! 



But these researches themselves were founded on a profound 

 moral and religious conviction. M. Cuvier beheved, in common 

 with every superior mind, in a First Cause, which has ordained 

 and presides over all. Proceeding on this principle, he never 

 entertained a doubt that the existence of organized beings was 

 due to a Supreme Intelligence, which has furnished them with 

 the organs necessary to fulfil the end of their creation ; and 

 from this necessary connexion, he has deduced the means, when 



