NEBULA TO MAN 
Whilst in amongst the thriving conifers, 
The Permian voltzia now in force appears. 
But though much plant-life old and dull has ceased, 
In sombre garb is still the landscape dressed. 
Yet life now breathes a less oppressive air, 75 
For old plant-life has cleansed an atmosphere 
With carbon long surcharged. Whilst far and wide 
Roll clearer seas, by limestone purified. 
Trilobites, that had for long times been depressed, 
Are one and all in muddy graves at rest. 80 
Thinned are " Sea-lily " ranks, though here and there 
Some species new of graceful form appear. 
Sea-urchin forms of old are failing fast, 
By forms that rose in Permian times surpassed. 
New types of brittle-stars are in the tide : 85 
New coral-life is spreading far and wide ; 
And Shrimp and Prawn like forms have multiplied. 
Affected little by the change around, 
Old forms and types of water-fleas abound. 
But " Lamp-shell " hosts are yielding to the strain 90 
Of changed environment ; and still are on the wane. 
Numbered with forms that now are seen no more 
Are those whose shells with spines were studded o'er. 
But though the " Lamp-shell " life has ceased to thrive, 
Some forms that date from far back times survive. 95 
46 
