RECENT PROGRESS OF THE GLACIER THEORY. 



authentic exposition of the theory ; and this is quite true. But 

 the criticism which the theoretical part of that work called 

 forth at the time and for several years subsequently, naturally 

 compelled the writer to attempt the removal of objections, to 

 enter into more detail on obscure points, and to bring together, 

 from various quarters, analogical arguments in favour of the 

 principles adopted and their applications. Indeed it would 

 even now perhaps be difficult for any one approaching the sub- 

 ject for the first time, to frame an objection which has not 

 either been anticipated by myself or suggested by others. So 

 numerous were these elucidations and replies to objections, that 

 they amounted to at least twenty detached essays, the greater 

 part of which are now for the first time collected in the present 

 volume. 



The revival of attention to the Theory of Glaciers, by the 

 writings of Dr. Tyndall and other recent explorers of the Alps, 

 and by some philosophers at home, suggested the present pub- 

 lication. It contains a literal reprint of those Minor Writings 

 in which I from time to time endeavoured first to expound the 

 Plastic Theory and afterwards to defend it. The course thus taken 

 is at least impartial in some respects it is disadvantageous to me.* 

 These pages exhibit, without reservation, the progress of the 

 writer's opinions from the very time of their formation within 

 view of the glaciers to their final homologation, after infinite 

 discussion and after years of reflection. But I accept the ordeal. 

 Without asserting that an absolute identity of opinion is to be 

 found in each page of writings composed at so many different 



* An acute observer and essayist not unjustly says, " If you want to be admired 

 for attainments do not exhibit the several steps of your progress. It makes no real 

 difference, but fools have little respect for what they can measure. This is often 

 the reason of the prophet being without ' honour in his own country.' It is only 

 with the best judges that the highest works of art would lose none of their honour 

 by being seen in their rudiments." Life and Books, by J. F. Boyes. 



