THE LAW HAEMONIZES WITH FACTS. 101 



presented is mere theory, and has no foundation in nature ; or 

 if such a law does exist, it is impracticable, and cannot be 

 applied to any useful purposes. We think both these impres- 

 sions are altogether a mistake. A careful and thorough inves- 

 tifiration will disclose, we think, such an amount of evidence 

 in support of the theory as to open almost any mind, not only 

 to a measure of conviction upon the subject, but to its vast 

 importance. Some may inquire if there is truth in these prin- 

 ciples, why were they not discovered before? The same 

 question might have been raised in reference to other great 

 discoveries. It seems to have been the design of Providence, 

 that the great truths of nature should be slowly brought to 

 light at different periods, and sometimes by humble agencies. 

 A vast amount of knowledge may exist on some subjects 

 without being reduced to system, or classified under any gen- 

 eral principle. It was so previous to the discovery of the 

 law of the circulation of the blood, and of electricity, of mag- 

 netism, of chemical affinity, etc., etc. Should the inquiries 

 that have now been stai-ted in this department of physiology, 

 serve to bring out and establish any new principle or law 

 applicable to a higher or more perfect development of animal 

 life, its capacity and powers, where could there be a more 

 ample field for the application of such principles or law, — one 

 which gives greater promise of remuneration and success, than 

 in the improvement of domestic stock ? It will render more 

 available not only all past experience and knowledge, but by 

 infusing new light and furnishing a sure guide for future op- 

 erations, will lead to most important and valuable results. 



This law, instead of conflicting at all with past experience, 

 harmonizes with almost every direction or rule laid down on 

 the subject. It goes farther. It explains many questions 

 which have baflied all inquii'ies, and reconciles many seeming 

 contradictions which have been hitherto inexplicable. It fur- 

 nishes gi-eat principles by which the correctness of all facts 

 may be tested, and reduced to system. It helps to preserve 

 all the knowledge which obtains upon the subject that is of 

 value, and transmits it to others in a manner that can be 

 turned to most valuable account. It points out the way 

 whereby the surest and most important improvements can be 

 made in domestic stock. And while it expounds the science 



