164 
upon astrology in tlie sixteenth century, and the teachings 
of “exact science” at the present time? The phraseology 
in which they are severally expressed is in several respects 
identical. 
The latest phase of “ science ” teaches the doctrine that 
life and death are nothing more than “ conditions of aldehyde 
groups,” which groups are themselves “ derived from primary 
alcohols ; also that only a few of these compounds have been 
obtained.” This is not stated as an allegory, but as a simple 
matter of what is intended to represent scientific fact, and be 
accepted by reasonable man. 
Such, then, being a few — a very few — out of the very many 
phases represented by “ scientific ” thought, it becomes sub- 
ject of congratulation that in one great division of the civilised 
world a periodical specially intended to form the opinion of 
the rising generation thus addresses young men and women, 
namely, in America : — 
“ The great leaders in science need to be modest in claiming 
that their propositions are absolutely true, and should be 
cautious in announcing that they have made a new discovery. 
A leading scientist * gained for a season a brilliant reputation 
by announcing that he had discovered protoplasm to be the 
source of all organic life. But, soon after, t the great English 
microscopist, denied the truth of the leading scientist’s theory, 
and asserted that bioplasm must be put in the place of proto- 
“ The eulogies over the grave of one of the foremost among 
observers J are yet fresh. They lifted him to a place among 
the immortals, for his wonderful discovery of progress in crea- 
tion by the law of natural selection. 
“ But now comes a writer § who has for years been studying 
with the best naturalists and biologists of Europe, and 
announces that life is not due to protoplasm, but to atomised 
charges of electricity conducted into the system by the oxygen 
of respiration. Variations, he says, are caused, not by natural 
selection, but by the action of electricity on reproductive 
germs. He holds to the theory of evolution, but not to the 
form of that doctrine which gave a world-wide reputation to 
its great apostle. The famous Herman professor, one of the 
highest authorities in Europe, is said to agree with the writer 
just quoted. || 
(( It may not be to the point to ask who shall decide when 
* Professor Huxley. + Dr. Lionel Beale. 
t Mr. Darwin. § Mr. Towne. 
|| Professor Helmholtz. 
