162 
occurs 821 times in the Pentateuch, 47 times in connection with the Deluge, 
37 times in reference to the world in general, 50 times in reference to the 
soil or ground (“doubtful,” he puts it), and 687 times in reference to particular 
countries. That shows what the usus loquendi is. So it is with reference 
to adama, the ground, and other words which I do not intend to touch upon. 
In conclusion, let me say that although one or two of the arguments may be 
considered doubtful, and although Mr. Eeddie might have been able, if he 
had had longer time, to overthrow them altogether, still the argument is 
cumulative ; it consists of many parts ; and though you may prove I am 
mistaken in particular branches of it, still in its entirety it is so strong 
that you cannot resist the conclusion that the Noachian Deluge was local. I 
am the more convinced of this view, because our estimable secretary has 
only been able to nibble at details, and has not touched the fundamental 
principles on which my theory stands. 
Mr. Reddie. — That is all I intended to do. I did not attempt to con- 
trovert the whole paper ; but whenever papers are read here, I think it 
necessary to point out defects in the arguments, even though I am not pre- 
pared to join issue offhand with their conclusion. Therefore, a great deal of 
what Dr. Rigg said fell harmless on me, because I did not undertake to 
oppose the paper generally ; and I am content to let the arguments, pro and 
con, now stand for what they are worth, being certain that truth will prevail, 
and that truth is our common object. 
The Chairman. — I am glad to find that so much real harmony exists in 
the midst of so much apparent discord. (Hear, hear.) 
The meeting was then adjourned. 
