Mr. Darwin and " Evolution," etc. 5 1 



he had publicly inflicted, but I noticed that in none of 

 them had the beaten side any especial reputation for can- 

 dour. This probably made all the difference. But however 

 this may be, Mr. Darwin left me in possession of the field, 

 in the hope, doubtless, that the matter would blow over — 

 which it apparently soon did. Whether it has done so in 

 reality or no, is a matter which remains to be seen. My 

 own belief is that people paid no attention to what I said, 

 as believing it simply incredible, and that when they come 

 to know that it is true, they will think as I do concern- 

 ing it. 



From ladies and gentlemen of science I admit that I have 

 no expectations. There is no conduct so dishonourable 

 that people will not deny it or explain it away, if it has 

 been committed by one whom they recognise as of their 

 own persuasion. It must be remembered that facts cannot 

 be respected by the scientist in the same way as by other 

 people. It is his business to familiarise himself with facts, 

 and, as we all know, the path from familiarity to contempt 

 is an easy one. 



Here, then, I take leave of this matter for the present. 

 If it appears that I have used language such as is rarely 

 seen in controversy, let the reader remember that the 

 occasion is, so far as I know, unparalleled for the cynicism 

 and audacity with which the wrong complained of 

 was committed and persisted in. I trust, however, that, 

 though not indifferent to this, my indignation has been 

 mainly roused, as when I wrote " Evolution, Old and New," 

 before Mr. Darwin had given me personal ground of com- 

 plaint against him, by the wrongs he has inflicted on dead 

 men, on whose behalf I now fight, as I trust that some 

 one — whom I thank by anticipation — may one day fight 

 on mine. 



