2Q2 THE BORDERLAND OF SCIENCE. 



ascertain the probable distribution of the mineral, 

 either as respects the extent of the earth's surface 

 occupied by coal strata, or the geological depths at 

 which it may be found ; or lastly, statisticians might 

 inquire into the probable duration of the supply of coal 

 in particular regions; but the general public has 

 hitherto paid no very close attention to these 

 researches. Now, however, it is different ; more par- 

 ticularly as respects the last of these questions. It 

 has become a matter of serious import to many, to 

 learn whether we may indeed look confidently for 

 abundant supplies of coal during many future years, or 

 whether those have been in the right who have told us 

 that before the close of the present century this 

 country must feel the effects of the over-rapid working 

 of our chief coal-fields. 



I propose briefly to sketch what is known about 

 the origin of coal, and then to touch on the subject of 

 the supply of this mineral, with special reference to the 

 requirements of our own country. 



A mistaken impression is somewhat widely prevalent 

 that, in the coal-fields, we have the remains of ancient 

 forests in other words, it is supposed that wherever 

 there was a forest in primeval times, there now exists 

 a coal-field of greater or less extent. In connection 

 with this view, also, the opinion is entertained that the 

 forests now in existence will, in process of time, and 

 after due geological changes, become the coal-beds of 

 future ages. 



But although, as we shall presently see, the coal- 



