CONCLUSION. 
525 
This is proved by the subsequent formations ; for while on the west the older rocks are exten¬ 
sively overlaid by deposits of the age of the Cretaceous formation, we find on the east that 
the Greensand of the same age occupies but a limited area, and but little elevated above the 
tide water, leaving the extensive Palaeozoic formations overlaid by no newer rocks, except 
in a few places and at low elevations by a recent Tertiary. 
The same causes which have operated in the production of these formations are now active 
in abrading the materials of our present continent, and transporting them into distant parts of 
the ocean ; and though we witness no such extensive or gigantic agencies of transport, as 
must have existed during former periods, still the law is the same, and the ultimate effect 
will be attended with like circumstances. 
The changes here enumerated, are but a few among the great series of changes which 
have brought the surface of the earth into its present condition ; which have formed the moun¬ 
tain chains, excavated the deep valleys, or piled up among its successive strata, materials 
fitted for our use and instruction. Every successive change has left its monuments, upon 
which is recorded the history of the past: that history shows the operation of a uniform law, 
the influence of a mighty design in the construction of the stupendous fabric on which we 
exist. And though we are not disposed to say, that the Creator has through all ages been 
fashioning and preparing the earth for the abode of man, or storing up its mineral treasures for 
his use alone, we can yet see the operation of his Divine law, and recognize in its harmonious 
adaptation the result of eternal beneficence and ETERNAL WISDOM. 
