150 
analogous with, human reason, but by the accumulation of 
innumerable slight variations, each good for the immediate 
possessor.” The same author writes : “ Why do whole groups 
of allied species appear, though this appearance is often false, 
to have come in suddenly in the successive geological stages ?” 
And then follows this sentence : — “ I can answer these ques- 
tions and objections on the supposition that the geological 
record is far more imperfect than most geologists believe.” * 
In other words, in order to support a theory confessedly 
founded upon an assumption, it becomes necessary further to 
suppose that the entire fabric of our earth is itself at fault. 
Surely, also, the similarity between the main point thus ex- 
pressed and certain points of the Indian philosophy already 
alluded to is rendered self-evident. 
In reference to opinions of which those quoted are ex- 
amples, a very able and competent critic ironically comments 
thus : — “ I believe that for the formation of the most 
complex form, it is not necessary to know how to make it. 
That being so, there cannot be supposed to be an All- 
wise Creator. I believe that Natural Selection is the 
Great Creator. I believe that there was no intelligence 
presiding over the plan of Nature. Cuvier, indeed, says 
that there was, but what do I care for Cuvier? I believe 
that the f struggle for life 3 which I have fancied must have 
exterminated millions upon millions of luckless failures. It 
may be assumption on my part, but I deal in assumptions. 
I believe that all animals have been changed by some accidental 
benefits ; but if you ask me to point to any existing animal, 
and say how it could be benefited by some change, that is 
quite another question, and one with which I do not consider 
that I have anything to do. I believe that many a one of even 
the lowest animals in the scale has a really wondrous and 
beautiful organisation, and you say that if so you do not see 
how it can be improved. You may add, why. can't they leave 
well alone ? ” f Why, indeed, can't they leave well alone ? 
It has been asked : How is it, according to the theory 
quoted, that all organic existence does not advance together 
to a common elevation ? The difficulties are as great for the 
theory in view of the large number of parts it does not 
attempt to include, as in the facts it strives to embrace. The 
most diversified types of animals and plants are everywhere 
found under identical circumstances. In explanation of the 
* Origin of Species , pp. 404-408. 
t See Articles of Darwinian Faith , by the Rev. F. 0. Morris, B.A., 
p. 58, et. seq. 
