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spirit of evil, as well as a spirit of good, and how far that spirit of evil has 
been suffered to prevail, and for what end, is not for us to determine, and 
pronounce with any degree of certainty. With reference to the subject of 
the spectral analysis, I may state that I did not wish to introduce that topic, 
for I find that in several of the papers or discussions in connection with 
this Institute, that peculiar analysis has its place. I might also have 
introduced the authority of the Duke of Argyll, if I had not likewise seen 
him quoted before in previous papers ; but you will observe that I do say, 
in § 10 of my paper, that the planets which are apparently so dissimilar, 
are constructed in the same manner ; and the information on which this is 
affirmed has been obtained, among other sources, from the spectral analysis. 
With respect to what has been said as to the illustrations to be drawn from 
the Bible, I would desire very briefly to observe, that as each stratum of the 
earth’s surface is essential for the uniform production of those things which are 
requisite to our existence, so I hold that you cannot eliminate a single book 
from the Bible without interfering with the beautiful uniformity of design that 
pervades the whole of the Word of God. Every stratum of the earth has its, 
particular adaptation, each helping to produce the general result ; and in the 
same way, whatever casket you unfold in the W ord of God, from Genesis to 
Revelation, you will be sure to find some precious jewel regarding Jesus 
Christ, which, whether it be put before us in the shape of prophecy, parable, 
symbol, or type, is Illustrative of the great truth to be afterwards disclosed 
when in the fulness of time the occasion arrives. (Hear, hear.) With 
reference to what has been adduced in relation to the character of the 
Egyptian monuments, I think it would not be wise for us to trust to 
the colouring which has been employed on the various vases and 
tombs that have been discovered in Egypt. I hardly think that the 
Egyptians knew much about the art of colouring, and I do not regard 
the fact that some of the figures were delineated in black pigments 
as a very strong argument that they were intended to be represented as 
black. And then, with regard to the question how far the sun has an effect 
upon human beings, so as to produce a remarkable colour which is capable of 
being inherited, is a matter that has been very little touched upon as yet. I 
know that in the case of tribes of the Mexicans, originally descended 
from Europeans, you would suppose that they were approaching half- 
way to what is termed the black colour, simply from the constant exposure 
to the sun, as well as from peculiarities of food, and so forth. In my opinion, 
we have a great deal yet to learn with regard to this question of colour and 
pigment ; and the subject is, I confess, one upon which I am too ignorant to 
know how it could be properly treated. With regard to the general effect of 
the paper, I hare simply to say that I should be very happy to receive from 
any one here, any suggestion which he would like to see developed in 
some other form ; but I must add that it is very necessary that papers, such 
as are read at these meetings, should not contain too much ; and it is, I 
think, rather a good fault if, when we go away from an entertainment, 
