NEBULA TO MAN 
Placental beasts so called (whose young are cast 
In states far more advanced) hold regions vast. 175 
Forms, by vague stocks foretold, now stand out clear, 
And " general " beasts have had to disappear. 
But though distinct, in numbers grow they less, 
And smaller grows the range to which they press. 
Gone, gone for ever is their golden age ; 1 80 
And poor indeed appears their heritage. 
Changes of clime, uncertain food supplies, 
And last, not least, Man's wide activities 
Have sunk their pride. And those that have no worth, 
In his regard, precarious live on earth. 185 
Fierce struggles must have been in times gone by 
'Twixt Man and beast to gain ascendency ; 
And for a time on many a savage scene 
Man's fate may well in jeopardy have been. 
But now his throne is set, and by his wit, 190 
Not by brute force, has he accomplished it. 
And over all he stands, a victor wreathed, 
And pride of all the life that ere has breathed. 
New men are now Europa's scene commanding, 
And men they are that seem of higher standing 1 95 
Than were the hunter-artists. Though fine art 
In their pursuits appears to play no part. 
But though their talents not to Art are turned, 
Yet have they useful occupations learned. 
