Notice of the Wonders of Geology. 17 



our planetary system was gradually evolved from a primeval con- 

 dition of matter, and contained within itself the elements of each 

 subsequent change, still we must believe, that every physical 

 phenomenon which has taken place, from first to last, has ema- 

 nated from the will of the Deity.* 



" Concluding Remarks. — With these remarks, I conclude this 

 attempt to combine a general view of geological phenomena, with 

 a familiar exposition of the inductions by which the leading prin- 

 ciples of the science have been established. And if I have suc- 

 ceeded in explaining in a satisfactory manner, how by laborious 

 and patient investigation, and the successful application of other 

 branches of natural philosophy, the wonders of geology have 

 been revealed — if I have removed but from one intelligent mind, 

 any prejudice against scientific inquiries, which may have been 

 excited by those who have neither the relish nor the capacity for 

 philosophical pursuits — if I have been so fortunate as to kindle 

 in the hearts of others, that intense and enduring love and admi- 

 ration of natural knowledge, which I feel in my own, — or have 

 illuminated the mental vision with that intellectual light, which 

 once kindled can never be extinguished, and which reveals to the 

 soul the beauty, and wisdom, and harmony of the works of the 

 Eternal, I shall indeed rejoice, for then my exertions will not 

 have been in vain. And although my humble name may be soon 

 forgotten, and all record of my labors be effaced, yet the influence 

 of that knowledge, however feeble it may be, which has emanated 

 from my researches, will remain for ever ; and, by conducting to 

 new and inexhaustible fields of inquiry, prove a never failing 

 source of the most pure and elevated gratification. 



" It is indeed the peculiar charm and privilege of natural phi- 

 losophy, that it 



* Can so inform 

 The mind that is within us — so impress 

 With quietness and beauty — and so feed 

 With lofty thoughts, that neither evil tongues, 

 Rash judgments, nor the sneers of selfish men, 

 Nor greetings where no kindness is, nor all 

 The dreary intercourse of common life, 

 Can e'er prevail against us, or disturb 

 Our cheerful faith, that all which we behold 

 Is full of blessings !'t 



* Professor Sedgwick. t Wordsworth. 



Vol. XXXIX, No. 1.— April-June, 1840. 3 



