On some points in geology as seen to-day

Extract

In our introductory observations on the past and present aspects of Geology, in No. I. of this Magazine, we alluded to some special points much discussed now-a-days, such as ‘the origin of granite, the mode of formation of river-valleys, the excavation of lake-basins, the doctrine of homotaxis, and the origin of species.’ During our six-mothes‘ existence, we have witnessed some advance in geological knowledge along these lines of research, though we cannot say that granite is much less mysterious, river-valleys and lake-basins far better understood, or the contemparaneity and succession of species more easily explained, than heretofore. Yet geologists hold a taper in the darkness—a feeble light, showing the thick mist, and but little of the footway. Along this darksome path have gone the fitting letter of the ready writer, the weightier essay, the pamphlet, and the book,—all intended to be lights or signposts, and often fit and good. Indeed many have tried to illumine this track through the history of the past; and now where do we stand, and what can we discern around us?