107 
We have here the history of the formation of a character 
which would find a much more congenial home in the midst of 
those who cherish the Presbyterian traditions of Ulster, than 
in the arid regions of infidelity. 
Such it is quite possible may be the conclusion of this re- 
markable career. Early impressions are very deep, and he may 
return to prove the proverbial influence of first attachments. 
May I add my sincere desire that such may be the case. But in 
the mean time we may fairly doubt whether such a mind is 
suited to be the apostle of a new dispensation in which Science 
is to prove itself the regenerator of mankind. He evidently 
classes himself with those who “believe undoubtingly that out 
of the coming struggle the truths of Science will emerge with 
healing in their wings.”* 
We have become acquainted with Science in many aspects 
during the last half-century, 
“ Einem ist sie die hohe, die himmlische Gottin, dem andern 
Eine tiichtige Kuh, die ikn mit Batter versorgt.” t 
But really the above expectation of healing from the truths 
of Science is the most remarkable that has fallen under my 
observation. 
Is it not true that the effect of all experimental Science is to 
create a spirit of scepticism, J which (if kept within proper limits) 
may be really useful, for we ought to prove all things, and hold 
fast only that which is good. Even if pushed beyond these 
limits, it has this effect (as I think might be illustrated by the 
works of, at least, one other leading philosopher), that the mind 
becomes at last sceptical of its own scepticism, wearied with its 
flights, and almost desirous of returning again to the ark, having 
found no rest to the sole of her foot. 
Is there not something of this tone of feeling in the following 
utterance of our author in the first preface? 
I have noticed during years of self-observation, that it is not in hours of 
clearness and vigour that this doctrine (“ Material Atheism ”) commends itself 
to my mind ; that in the presence of stronger and healthier thought, it 
ever dissolves and disappears, as offering no solution of the mystery in which 
we dwell and of which we form a part.” 
All the established results of real practical Science may be 
compared to the gigantic empire of old Borne, won by the hard 
Preface, p. xxxi. f Schiller's Gedichte, 1818, p. 126. 
+ ffK£ r l C (from whence scepticism) in the sense of “ hesitation or doubt ” 
has far less to do with the errors of our “ thinkers ’’ than coy pa, or “ that 
which seems true to one, an opinion .” — See Liddell and Scott, Lexicon. 
