But though, in generalising the operations of nature, we have arrived at
those great events, which, at first sight, may fill the mind with
wonder and with doubt, we are not to suppose, that there is any violent
exertion of power, such as is required in order to produce a great event
in little time; in nature, we find no deficiency in respect of time, nor
any limitation with regard to power. But time is not made to flow in
vain; nor does there ever appear the exertion of superfluous power, or
the manifestation of design, not calculated in wisdom to effect some
general end.
The events now under consideration may be examined with a view to see
this truth; for it may be inquired, Why destroy one continent in order
to erect another? The answer is plain; Nature does not destroy a
continent from having wearied of a subject which had given pleasure, or
changed her purpose, whether for a better or a worse; neither does she
erect a continent of land among the clouds, to show her power, or to
amaze the vulgar man; Nature has contrived the productions of vegetable
bodies, and the sustenance of animal life, to depend upon the gradual
but sure destruction of a continent; that is to say, these two
operations necessarily go hand in hand.
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