196 THE SUCCESSION OF ANIMAL FORMS 



been preceded by similar forms connecting them with previous 

 groups ; but there is reason to believe that many supposed 

 representative species in successive formations are really only 

 races or varieties. 



9. In so far as we can trace their history, specific types are 

 permanent in their characters from their introduction to their 

 extinction, and their earlier varietal forms are similar to their 

 later ones. 



10. Palaeontology furnishes no direct evidence, perhaps 

 never can furnish any, as to the actual transformation of one 

 species into another, or as to the actual circumstances of 

 creation of a species ; but the drift of its testimony is to show 

 that species come in per saltum, rather than by any slow and 

 gradual process. 



T i. The origin and history of life cannot, any more than the 

 origin and determination of matter and force, be explained on 

 purely material grounds, but involve the consideration of power 

 referable to the unseen and spiritual world. 



Different minds may state these principles in different ways, 

 but I believe that in so far as palaeontology is concerned, in 

 substance they must hold good, at least as steps to higher 

 truths. And now allow me to say that we should be thankful 

 that it is given to us to deal with so great questions, and 

 that in doing so, deep humiliation, earnest seeking for truth, 

 patient collection of all facts, self-denying abstinence from 

 hasty generalizations, forbearance and generous estimation with 

 regard to our fellow labourers, and reliance on that Divine 

 Spirit which has breathed into us our intelligent life, and is 

 the source of all true wisdom, are the qualities which best be- 

 come us. 



But while the principles noted above may be said to be 

 known laws of the apparition of new forms of life, they do 

 not reach to the secondary efficient causes of the introduction 

 of new species. What these may ultimately prove to be, to 



