938 The American Naturalist. [October, 
Darwin’s generalization would be seen to be not a mere coincidence, 
but a dynamical law. 
We believe, in view of all the evidence brought forward in recent 
discussion, that it is altogether probable that extensive subsidences of 
the ocean’s bed have taken place in Tertiary and Quaternary times, 
and that the majority of barriers and atolls are the result of such subsi- 
dence, though conceding that both barriers and atolls may be formed 
without Eee 
"We e devoted most of this review to the examination of the 
es barriers and atolls, in view of the interest which recent dis- 
cussion has aroused. The book before us is, however, by no means a 
controversial work, nor is it chiefly occupied with the presentation of 
the Darwin-Dana theory. On the contrary, in a remarkably many- 
sided way, Professor Dana has given us all phases of the subject: the 
structure, physiology, and taxonomy of the coral animals; the mode 
of formation of reefs and islands ; the far-reaching geological inferences 
which the facts suggest; the fantastic beauty of those gem-like islands ; 
and, in sad contrast, the lack of the essential conditions of an indige- 
nous or self-supporting civilization, — 
“ Where every prospect pieases, 
And only man is vile.” 
The professional geologist will turn to the book for the latest and 
most matured views of one preéminently entitled to speak with 
authority. The student will find in it a well-digested encyclopedic 
Work of reference. The general reader will follow with delight the 
steps of one who, with a love of nature so pure and childlike, 
—— Wandered where the dreamy palm 
ked down into the coral cave,” 
In regard to the externals of the book, it is enough to say that the 
publishers have got it up in a style worthy of the contents. The book 
is richly illustrated. In this edition several new maps are added, and 
a few beautiful colored plates of corals and sea-anemones.—Wm. 
NonTH Rice, in Mew Publications. 
