ABSTRACT
It does not appear, therefore, that the mathematical investigation prevents us in any way from taking a general view of the matter under the light of the positive teachings of geology. We know that a cooling body must contract, and that it will not contract equally throughout; we know
t~at the surface-features demonstrate a great amount of contraction, and whether other causes of contraction have operated or not, we are at liberty to look on the cooling as one of the most potent ; and geological observatio.Js 1rust teach us how far and in what manner such contractions have been effected.
