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Ch. IV.] 



MODERN PEOGEESS OF GEOLOGY. 



89 



minds more definite ideas than figures can do of the immensity 

 of time. 



Whether our investigation of the earth's history and 

 structure will eventually be productive of as great practical 

 benefits to mankind as a knowledge of the distant heavens, 

 must remain for the decision of posterity. It was not till 

 astronomy had been enriched by the observations of many 

 centuries, and had made its way against popular prejudices 

 to the establishment of a sound theory, that its application 

 to the useful arts was most conspicuous. The cultivation of 

 geology began at a later period ; and in every step which it 

 has hitherto made towards sound theoretical principles, it 

 has had to contend against more violent prepossessions. 

 The practical advantages already derived from it have not 

 been inconsiderable ; but our generalisations are yet imper- 

 fect, and they who come after us may be expected to reap 

 the most valuable fruits of our labour. Meanwhile the charm 

 of first discovery is our own ; and, as we explore this 

 nificent field of enquiry, the sentiment of a great historian 

 of our times may continually be present to our minds, that 

 ' he who calls what has vanished back again into being, 

 enjoys a bliss like that of creating/* 



* Niebuhr's Hist, of Rome, vol. i. p. 5. Hare and ThirlwalFs translation. 



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