256 THE HISTORY OF GEOLOGY 



world, we assert that we know not to what these processes 

 are due ; and yet, somehow, to my thinking there stands 

 behind them, connected in some incomprehensible man- 

 ner, but still connected, the working of a mind which is 

 Divine. 



Professor Phillips was succeeded by Professor Prestwich, 

 the Nestor of English geologists, who maintained the 

 principle of evolution in geology, as opposed to uni- 

 formitarianism ; and to him followed Professor Green, 

 whose loss is still fresh and still deplored. 



The influence of Oxford on geology has been far .greater 

 than in this imperfect sketch can be made to appear ; she 

 has never shut her eyes to a new theory, but, whether by 

 criticism or advocacy, has endeavoured to 'stablish the 

 truth that it might prevail ; her direct contributions to 

 knowledge have been very many and very great ; if we 

 mentioned no other work but one; "The Principles of 

 Geology," by the immortal Lyell, would alone suffice to 

 vindicate her fame. 



