INTRODUCTION 



life of each, causing the romance of love and most of 

 the Poetry of Life. 



The problems offered by the existence of Sin and 

 Death find a better solution in the doctrine of Evolu- 

 tion than can probably elsewhere be given. Death 

 is unquestionably an integral and essential part of 

 the plan of existence. The former finds a partial 

 solution in atavism, and it is trusted will find a com- 

 plete one in the ultimate results of further and per- 

 fected evolution. 



The course of life is not intended to be free from 

 troubles. The full development of the physical 

 frame is in consequence of the exercise of its muscles 

 and faculties ; unless the organs are brought into use 

 they will not strengthen, and if quite disused will be 

 atrophied or die. So it is with the 'mental and moral 

 faculties. The greater the intelligence, and the 

 greater its capacity for advancement and improve- 

 ment, so much the greater is its need of a higher 

 stimulus for the onward course. The lessons of life 

 are to be learned more by practice than by precept. 



The Philosophy of Evolution can teach nothing 

 positive concerning a future life more than other 

 philosophies can teach. To discuss it even lies out- 

 side of its province. Nevertheless, this may be said, 

 The Path of Evolution clearly shows that the course 

 of all life here is an advance from a lower state of 



(xxviii) 



