GEOLOGY OF SOMERSET. 139 
man; such views are singularly applicable to any 
consideration of the geology of the county of Somer- 
set. It is our privilege to reside in a district where 
geological extremes meet; where those varieties 
which are generally separated by great distance, 
are brought within the range of almost immediate 
inspection. We are within reach of the lowest 
formations, and of the latest, while the caverns of 
the Mendip and the Quantock ranges enable us to 
contemplate the brilliant results of erystallization, 
and the astounding remains of animals no longer 
denizens of England or of Europe. It may indeed, 
without any undue partiality for this favored county, 
be permitted us to question, whether there is any 
spot ofequal dimensions on the surface of our planet, 
where the relative progress of creative energy is 
more distinctly unfolded, or the bounties dependant 
on geological distribution more varied or profuse. 
At all events we shall be justified in concluding, 
that there is not any known locality which affords 
greater facilities and inducements to the patient 
humble-minded student of nature, or more decided 
manifestations of the measureless bounty and power 
of the Creator. 
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