28 MAN: 



The data may be few and doubtful and the results 

 uncertain, still if they have been earnestly sought 

 after and honestly interpreted, they are not to be 

 despised. All knowledge is merely relative, and the 

 more cordial the reception of the narrow information 

 of to-day, the surer and speedier the attainment of the 

 wider knowledge of to-morrow. Where the conclu- 

 sions are sufficient to produce conviction, let the 

 conviction be avowed ; and where faUing to induce 

 belief, let them be received at least as well-meant and 

 honest endeavours. 



Nor is the investigation of man's where, whence, 

 and whither without its importance to other subjects 

 of scientific research. Archaeology, ethnology, and 

 history will derive confirmation or correction accord- 

 ing to the conclusions arrived at ; and much in the 

 rise and progress of our race which is now irreconcUe- 

 able under the ordinary views of chronology, may 

 become easy of explanation under the establishment 

 of a higher antiquity. Where history ceases, geology 

 may assist the archaeologist in the determination of 

 primeval remains ; and where ethnology is puzzled in 

 tracing connections, palseontological discovery may 

 sometimes contribute the necessary information. The 

 establishment of a higher antiquity for the human 

 race, and of an ascent from lower to higher varieties, 

 would give ample scope to views on civilisation, the 



