be written as a caveat or contradiction of the first, it will not be deemed a high degree of presumption to attempt an analysis of the points of discussion, and to place these in such a shape as may enable the general inquirer to comprehend the import and bearing of the whole question. In a work recently published for the use of students, where the facts of geology alone are given, I have endeavoured to illustrate the practicability of teaching all that is really important in the science, apart from theoretical views. That work having already had a rapid circulation, I have in the present endeavoured to complete my original plan, by giving an analysis of those facts as they bear upon theoretical and historical views of the past condition of the earth. I am well aware, however, that the execution of this task is very incomplete, and could have wished that some one, having more extensive means of information, and more leisure from the anxieties of daily avocations, had undertaken it. I must also here, in the outset, state, that I may be reckoned by some not an unpreju to Harvard College To THE AGE OF THE EARTH CONSIDERED GEOLOGICALLY AND HISTORICALLY. BY WILLIAM RHIND, MEMBER OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS, MEMBER OF THE ROYAL MEDICAL SOCIETY ENVIRONS OF EDINBURGH," &c. Sit numine vestra Pandere res alta terra et caligine mersas. VIRG. EN. EDINBURGH : FRASER & CO. 54, NORTH BRIDGE; |