390 CONCLUSION. [Oh. XVI. 



fossiliferous strata : but we think it better not to admit this 

 until it is clearly demonstrated. 



Having thus briefly stated our notion concerning the form- 

 ation of the earth, and having pointed out in what manner 

 this conjecture, although opposed to part of the prevailing 

 theory concerning the primary rocks, may yet be combined 

 with the general opinion regarding the nature of the secondary 

 and tertiary formations, it only remains to apologise for thus 

 obtruding another hypothesis into a science which is already 

 overburdened with speculations. 



We might plead, in extenuation of our conduct, the very 

 general bias to theorise in those who have been zealous cul- 

 tivators of geology ; but we think that we have a better ex- 

 cuse in the necessity of our case ; for we felt it incumbent on 

 us, after such strenuous exertions to overturn the Plutonic 

 theory, to offer another explanation of the perplexing facts. 

 Indeed, if we had not attempted to supply the deficiency, it 

 might be observed, in the event of our success, that an 

 imperfect theory is better than none. We were also urged 

 onwards in this course by other cogent motives the assur- 

 ance that it would tend to render the work more complete, 

 by throwing additional light on the nature of our dissent, and 

 the sanguine hope that, by pointing out a different view of 

 the subject, without perverting any known analogies, we might 

 more readily induce a conviction that the phenomena of the 

 primary rocks are not in accordance with the prevailing 

 theory. 



We sincerely trust, however, whatever may be 'the issue 

 of the approaching discussion, that, as fellow-labourers in 

 a common cause, we shall be actuated by a mutual esteem, 

 and only strive, in friendly competition, who can render the 

 best interpretation of the great and glorious mysteries of 

 Nature. 



