152 C05IPARIS0NS OF STP.L'CTUBE IN ANIMALS. 



diameter of tlie canal at the flexure is not 

 reduced beyond that of its narrow portion. 

 Thus is the safety of the bird provided for, and 

 the needful mobility of the neck preserved. 

 From the experiments of^JMr, Earle, it was 

 found that the vertebras thus constructed, 

 might be bent backwards even to a right 

 angle, aixl laterally to the extent of half a 

 right angle, without injury to the inclosed 

 spine. 



It is in facts like this — in minute details of 

 structure, easil}'^ comprehended by the most 

 ordinary intellect — that the power and wisdom 

 of God are so clear and palpable. When we 

 attempt to grasp mentally the great scheme 

 of creation, weigh the bearings of one portion 

 on another, and moot the final causes of organic 

 life, our mind recoils from the task; we feel 

 our "weakness, and are lost in amazement. 

 But when we come to the examination of struc- 

 ture, and at every step meet with proofs of 

 care, skill, and design, we feel delighted and 

 refreshed as we pursue our way, and trace the 

 hand of God in the works of this lower world. 

 So, too, is it when we contemplate the scheme 

 of salvation ; the truths essential for us to know 

 and believe are clear and direct, and are cal- 



