466 
The interest that may thus be excited by the novelty of a scene 
will not so readily diminish when we study the great physical 
changes the country has undergone in the past, which appear like 
so many dissolving views blending the old scenery with the modern. 
No spot need then be altogether devoid of interest; for the 
poetic vision of the geologist may restore scenes of grandeur and 
beauty which may give a charm to the mud cliffs of Cromer, or to 
the uninviting flats of the Fenland ; while the researches of the 
antiquary and the historian may further excite our interest, by 
telling how the various incoming tribes have contributed to give 
our country the aspect it now wears.*" Such topics furnish almost 
endless subjects of study, leading us to consider the advantages we 
possess over those of the many generations in the past. For there 
can be no question that the increase of knowledge enlarges our 
capacity for enjoying our surroundings, and not the least important 
element in this is the appeal to our imaginations which may be 
made by a study of the origin and past history of the land in which 
we live. 
* An interesting article on ‘ The Geological Influences which have affected 
the course of British History,’ has been published by Dr. A. Geikie, in ‘Mac- 
millan’s Magazine,’ March 1882, and ‘ Geological Sketches at Home and 
Abroad ’ [1882] p. 353. 
