The Relation of Science and Religion.pdf - Online Christian Library

180 SCIENCE AND RELIGION.arrangen~ents connected with the ripening ofthese two, which restrain or even prevent selffertilization.Along with this there are distinctlines of evidence to establish the rulethat cross-fertilization, or transferclice of pollenfroin one flower to the seed of another,secures the growth of a much healthier aiidmore vigorous order. Where such transferenceis provided for otherwise than by thewind, the attractiveliess of the flowers bringsto them at the proper season, the insects whichcarry the pollen, and to each class of insect isdistributed a distinct share in the work. Inthese facts we have a natural law for preservationof species, discovering in a very strikingmanner the dependence of lower organismon higher. As Mr. Darwin has said, -" Themeaning of these facts is clear." Referringto the examples in which the insects have tobore holes in order to reach the honey, wherethere is need for time to allow for the hardeningof the viscid matter, he has used the followingwords which are most fitly applied,-" If this double relation is accidental, it is afortunate accident for the plants; but I cannot believe it to be so, aiid it appears to meo:re of tlle most wo:iderful cases of adaptation