PROGRESSIVE ORDER. 
179 
of infinite skill, the operations of Him whose 
way is perfect, are as real in the one case as 
the others. 
There is undoubtedly a kind of progres¬ 
sive order in the multiplication of organic 
forms during successive formations, but it 
is evidently the order of express appoint¬ 
ment, and not of self evolution. The order, 
like the forms themselves, will doubtless 
appear to be the wisest and best possible, in 
that glorious era when we shall be permitted, 
with exalted faculties, to review the whole 
of that which we see now in part only. 
‘‘Ah how the human mind wearies herself 
With her own wanderings, and involved in gloom 
Impenetrable, speculates amiss ! 
Measuring in her folly, things divine 
By human ; laws inscribed on adamant 
By laws of man’s device ; and counsels fixed 
For ever, by the hours that pass and die.” 
Cowper, from Milton*s Latin Poems. 
There is something impressive to the 
thoughtful mind in the consideration of the 
pristine relics which fossil botany displays. 
They have come down to us as witnesses 
that God is not only the same yester- 
