decision on subjects which have drawn forth volumes from men of well earned fame; but whilst I admit the charge to be in some degree a just one, I plead in extenuation a diligent consideration of the best authorities before I ventured on my speculations; and I deprecate that misinterpretation of my meaning which should convert opinions, offered with unfeigned diffidence, as inducements to farther investigation, into the hasty conclusions of prejudice, or the arrogant judgment of presumption. The subject, although hitherto much neglected, presents so sublime and fascinating an aspect, and promises so fairly to be successfully pursued, that if I stimulate but one efficient votary to exertion in a cause which I am conscious is but little enriched by the present volume, I shall be amply repaid for the time which has been spent in its production, independent of the gratification which I feel in inscribing to you my first humble attempt at literary composition. I have the honour to be, My dear Sir, Yours very sincerely, EDWARD MERYON. February, 1836. Geological condition of the earth's surface-Probable causes of the successive formations-Fossilliferous strata-De- velopment of organization-The adaptation of the present |