458 



worlds had existed before the present. Man, unable to view the 

 connection between these changes, and to judge of the important 

 ends, intended to be thus accomplished, would show as much 

 folly and presumption, by inferring a narrow limitation of the 

 power of the Creator, on discovering that the remains of former 

 worlds entered into the composition of this, as if he were to make 

 a similar inference, on remarking one of the metamorphoses of the 

 silk-worm, without being acquainted with the other particular cir- 

 cumstances in the natural history of that insect. 



Regarding the destruction and renovation of the world in this 

 point of view, the most interesting conjectures force themselves on 

 the mind. If it be apparent that, from the breaking up of a pre- 

 ceding world, the present has derived a higher degree of utility 

 and beauty ; may not this also be preparing to undergo, at some 

 distant era, a new recomposition, by which it may be made to ex- 

 ceed this, in a similar proportion, in the possession of every excel- 

 lence ? May it not thus become fitted for the reception of beings 

 of higher susceptibilities and powers ? But, checking this propen- 

 sity to indulge in vain, and, perhaps, dangerous conjectures, we will 

 return to inquiries rather more within the reach of reason ; pre- 

 mising only one observation, intended, to render more striking the 

 necessity of diffident caution, whilst employing our limited powers of 

 judgment, on any point which involves the knotty question of the 

 origin of evil. How derogatory from the dignity and omnipotence 

 of the Creator, might a presumptuous and short-sighted caviller say, 

 is the unfinished condition of great part of the creation, requiring 

 the aid of art to effect the full evolution of its powers ? not a plant, 

 nor an animal, is there scarcely which exists, but, in its natural state, 

 is so far from perfection, as to require the greatest care and culture, 

 to procure the full display of its beauties, and the developement of 

 its various faculties. But, one more glance is sufficient to discover, 



