ductions of that country must have been widely different from what they are at this time; particularly there must have been much wood; for all the fossil animals that have been discovered there are herbivorous; and this one in particular was in good condition. Accordingly we find that much fossil wood is found in that country. We observe also, that the death of the Siberian race of the Mammoth must have been sudden; this appears from the situation of this animal when found; it was on an elevated situation, near the bank of the river; and it appears to have been standing when it became enclosed in the ice, or but a very short time before; for when the ice melted and left it, it fell from its position to a considerable distance below. That at the least, it was but recently dead, appears from the state of preservation in which it was found; even the iris of the eye was visible, though after a time it dried and became confounded with the other parts. To the ice we are indebted for this complete preservation; which we shall presently see, enables us to give some precision to our conclusions, in regard to the Epoch of some of the grand changes which have taken place in the earth, which we could not have obtained from the same remains in warm climates, where nothing opposes their decay. In the 5th chapter of the book of Genesis, we have an historical sketch of the genealogy of the first race of men, which lived from the creation to the great æra of the flood. Of these we are told, that they did not attain to a due age for the procreation of children until they were from 100 to 120 years old; Lamech was 182 years old when he begat his first-born. The duration of their lives was proportionally extended; so that they existed in the world for little less than a thousand years. Of such men, whatever their stature and strength might be, (and universal tradition reports that the earth whs once tenanted by men of greater stature and strength than are to be found in modern times,) it is very clear that the constitution of their nature must have differed very considerably from that which we now possess; and if so, there must have been a general fitness of nature, air, temperature, &c. answering to it. Presently after the flood, we find that instead of about a hundred years, an age between 30 and 40 was that whereat men became capable of procreation; and the duration of human life extended only to about 450 years, or half of what it was before. At this period also, the diet was changed, and perhaps other particulars of living. The flesh of animals was allowed for human food after the flood. In the time of Peleg, men began to procreate at 30, and to live about 250 years; and the earth was divided, an expression which shews an alteration in the frame of the globe, as well as in man its inhabitant. Finally, in the time of Moses, the age of man was reduced to about 70 years: and so it has continued to the present time. And it is to be particularly noticed, that these important changes took place at precise periods, and were not the result of the gradual decay of human strength; as we find both from the narrative of the book of Genesis, and from the words of the Almighty. If, as unavoidably follows, the general constitution of nature was altered to suit the new constitution of man, it is clear that the nature of other animals must be proportionally changed also, if they were to be continued in existence; but if any of them were incapable of undergoing so great a change without a complete alteration of their essential characters and nature, and if the Allwise did not see fit to convert them into, in fact, new animals, which would have been nothing short of a new creation, the race must necessarily be blotted out: Hence we perceive that it is perfectly consistent with what we know of the wisdom and providence of the Deity, that creatures which he had made should become extinct. That man should be preserved in such mighty alterations of nature, will not excite surprise, when we consider that he is capable of living in all extremes, from the equator to the pole; and, moreover, the change in inanimate nature was made on his account. Animals are in general confined to particular regions of the earth; and they are therefore more likely to suffer from such mutations as we have contemplated; and that many species might be unable to survive them, appears extremely probable. A review of the nature and affinities of such taken place at other periods, though not perhaps in so remarkable a manner, or degree. We may, therefore, consider the history of the changes in the globe to be divided into four grand Epochs, separated from each other by the lapse of ages, but similar in kind; each being marked with an alteration in the inanimate creation, the consolidation of some parts, the elevation of others above the sea, and the submersion of others; changes in the mode of existence of those whose natures could bear the change, and at each time the extinction of those which could not. Those which before animals as now continue to exist, will even enable us to point out such of their congeners as are likely to be lost. We know that in by far the greater part of the animals now existing, there is such an analogy, as will enable us to arrange them into orders and genera, each one, in regard to figure and properties, taking its place by the side of another with great regularity; but we know also, that in particular instances, this succession of kindred nature falls short, and individual species seem to stand alone, without being linked to other genera by any intermediate kinds. This is the case with the Elephant, the Hip-lived in one region, would find thempopotamus, Giraffe, and in some mea- selves capable of existing only in ansure with the Hog, among beasts; other, perhaps at the other extremity and with the Ostrich, and perhaps a of the globe. few others, among birds. And it is a strong circumstance in favour of the view of the subject which I have taken, that the creatures which have been found in a fossil state, in such a state of preservation as will enable us to form any idea of their figure or affinities, belong principally to those insulated genera which now exist. The Siberian Mammoth partakes as much of the nature of the Hog, as of the Elephant; but was probably more nearly allied to the extinct Elephant of temperate climates, the bones of which have been found fossil, than to that with which we are acquainted. The Mastodon, whose bones lie on the surface, and therefore cannot have lain from immense antiquity, on At the time of the deluge, men and the banks of the Ohio and Mississippi, animals were indiscriminately destroyseems to have been allied to the Hip-ed; but as they must have lain in a popotamus, or the Hog, animals which seem to stand in need of this, and perhaps a few other connecting links. It is to the consolidation of calcareous and other matter, that we are to ascribe the preservation of the greatest proportion of animal remains; and to the circumstance of this consolidation, and the extinction of what are denominated fossil animals, happening at the same period, and from the same cause, are we to ascribe their almost exclusive preservation; for such individuals only of present existing races as should die at the same time, could be preserved in the same manner. Were we able to point out existing monuments of each of these grand geological changes, we might expect to find preserved in them very different kinds of animal substances. macerated state for at least a year, we should not expect to meet with fossil remains of this remote date. The other changes are more likely to But though we are thus enabled to afford them in good preservation, but account for the loss of these races of it does not appear possible to point beings, we are to seek further, in or- out any criterion, whereby the era of der to account for the preservation of these phenomena is to be distinguishtheir forms. In order to this, we ed; for the consolidation of the first must remark, that the change in the period might suffer a farther change constitution of the air and general at the second or third: but no risk of temperature, is necessarily connected mistake seems to be encountered in with an alteration in the solid parts of fixing the extinction of the Mammoth the globe itself. Seas, rocks, land, race at a time the most recent; that clouds, rivers, minerals, &c. must be is, about the age of Moses; for, while moulded to the new order of things: the face of nature in Siberia was so from an expression before alluded to, changed, as that land, capable of of the division of the earth in the time bearing extensive woods, was convertof Peleg, we find that such a change ed into a mass of ice, only a slight took place in his day; and from histo-geological change seems to have been ry we learn that something similar has introduced. No. 36.-Vol. IV. D ported from Liverpool, I had occasion to make application, amongst other offices attached to the establishment, at the one occupied by Mr. Lee, (if I remember right, he was a land-waiter) which was situated under the Piazzas, the next to the door-way, and stone stairs leading up to the long room. A Dog, belonging to that gentleman, about the middle size, I believe of the terrier breed, perceiving my approach, immediately leaped upon the adjoining desk, and, giving a single bark, fixed his eyes attentively upon me. For a moment I paid little attention to the circumstance; upon which my new acquaintance, not easily to be repulsed in his overtures of friendship, repeated his bark in a still louder tone, and at the same time placed one of his by no means cleanly or gentle paws upon my shoulder withal, still continuing to look me attentively in the face. But while many will agree with me, in regard to the causes of the extinction of the lost animals, it is probable that doubts will be entertained with respect to the suddenness of the catastrophe; for it has been a favourite speculation with infidel writers, and in which they have been thoughtlessly followed by others of a different stamp, that all the changes in the constitution and structure of the earth have been effected in a very gradual manner, and that the magnitude of the effects which we witness, has depended only on the immensity of time during which they have been producing. The arguments adduced in proof of this idea, are futile in a high degree, and have been triumphantly controverted by De Luc, and others;-but it would occupy too much time to notice what he has advanced. To those, with whom the divine word is sufficient authority, I would simply recommend an attentive perusal of the book of Genesis. To others, I would recommend the Essays on Creation and Geology, which have appeared in the Imperial Magazine, vol. 2, with the addition of an argument drawn from the complete state of preservation, in which many minerals, and specimens of natural objects, of the most tender fabric, are found; specimens which could scarcely have existed a week without extraordinary means of pre-his tail, no small satisfaction at the servation. Specimens of fossil fishes have been found in stone, in the act of devouring each other. I do not conclude from this, that the creature seized its prey through appetite, in the act of petrifaction; but I have known fishes do this in the agony of a violent death in the water; and this was probably the case in the instance alluded to. Polperro. J. COUCH. CANINE SAGACITY. Some spectators of this amicable interview, amused at my alarm, desired me not to be afraid, as it was merely an appeal to the charitable benevolence of my feelings. An applicant so strange, so truly pathetic and touching, of course could not be refused. Whilst preparing to comply with his demand, the animal attentively regarded the motion of my hand towards my pocket, and indicated, by very expressive looks and wagging expected result. On throwing down a halfpenny, at some distance, the Dog rushed impetuously in pursuit of it, and in his mouth carried it forthwith to a neighbouring cake womandropped it at the foot of her basket, and received its value in return. Having thus satisfied the claims of this affair of Customs," I de parted. On a subsequent occasion, meeting this sagacious animal in the same Custom-House Yard, following his master, at some distance from his office, I had a desire to put his fidelity to the test, which I did by throwing down a halfpenny before him. Having secured this in his mouth, be appeared for a moment in a dilemma how to act, under the influence of two powerful and conflicting feelings, whether to repair to his old friend the basket woman, and satisfy the demand of hunIn the year 1815, having to pass anger, or nobly to put a constraint upon entry at the Custom House, in Dublin, of some goods which I had im MR. EDITOR. SIR,-Having just read in the Methodist Magazine, for March, 1821, an account of the sagacity of a Dog-I beg leave, through the medium of your instructive Miscellany, to state a circumstance of a similar nature, which occurred to myself. his sensation, and follow his master. To his credit be it spoken, the claims of duty prevailed over the keenness of his appetite. However, perceiving soon after, his master stop to speak to some one, he cast a wistful eye towards the spot where all his heart's treasure was deposited, and stole nimbly away towards it without a moment's hesitation. But on his way, turning for an instant a glance round upon his master, and perceiving him in the act of passing on, this faithful animal again relinquished his object, measured his steps backward, patiently followed him round the yard, until at length, after a considerable circuit, he had the no small satisfaction and doubly-felt enjoyment of returning to the spot where the claims of duty and inclination, doubtless without any scruples of conscience, could be satisfied together. What a lesson this "for the nobler creature Man." Your well-wisher, J. H. 25, Paradise-street, Liverpool. A DISSERTATION ON FRIENDSHIP.- suade me their friendship was inde- "And what is friendship but a name, A shade that follows wealth and fame; A false friend, like a viper, entwines around you with sparkling eyes, and tempting fascinating appearance; until he finds out your frailties, and then he stings you in the tenderest parts! He blasts your reputation, he defames your character, he vilifies your integrity, and in short, as a reason he assigns for discarding you, but in reality to conceal his own baseness, he uses all his endeavours to effect your complete overthrow; and, if he fail in the accomplishment of his purpose, you may thank the intervention of Divine Providence for protecting you. How cautious and circumspect ought we to be in the choice of a friend; for, "in the affairs of the world, men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it." Not so the behaviour and conduct of a true friend; for as a tree is known by its fruits, as a Christian's faith is proved by his works, so is real from counterfeit friendship distinguished by its operations and effects. He will counsel with you, commiserate you under misfortunes, and not only encourage, but help and assist you with his person, his purse, or both: he will bear with your infirmities, soothe you in affliction, and support you in the hour of dissolution! He will never leave you nor forsake you; not feel it It is manifestly true by woeful ex- a burthensome task to serve you. perience, that the world abounds with While life lasts, he will represent to false friends. I have been frequently you hopes and prospects of better and deceived this way. I have been led, happier days in this world; or, in as by an ignis fatuus, too much to es- the article of death, he will pray for teem those whose friendships were your eternal welfare in another. 'As only professional,-their pretensions iron sharpeneth iron, so doth the counvain, their promises nullified. While tenance of a man his friend." There I was in prosperity, they would per-subsists a reciprocity of ideas, and an 66 same Spirit of holiness, and glory in being fellow pilgrims through this world to a better. They frequently commune with their God together; identity of sentiments between true friends, which binds them in constant union and firm compact to each other; and when death separates them, as nothing else can, the sur-laying before him all their frailties, vivor mourns his loss; yet not like one imperfections, trials, afflictions, miswithout hope, having a cheering pros- fortunes, and necessities; mutually pect of meeting his friend in a place imploring his kind aid in, and deliverwhere celestial friendship shall be con- ance from, all their troubles; in a word, summated in everlasting duration ! How can two walk together unless they are agreed?" Such is the happy life of true friends, and such are the motives of real friendship! As there can be no effects without a cause, let us inquire a little into the source and origin of friendship. Sometimes it is generated by early acquaintance; at other times by long intercourse together; and last of all, by sudden and accidental occurrences. Like vibrations in music, there is evinced an almost instantaneous unison of souls, which naturally discovers itselfin action. Friendship originates in affection; its object is first loved, then befriended; and the stronger the tie of affection, the stronger will be the tie of friendship. But as friendship unbiassed by partial principles is hard to be discriminated; so friendship, which is only professionally established on false pretensions of regard, and unfaithful love, is as difficult to be ascertained and guarded against. The progress of real friendship (from whatever cause it originates,) is generally gradual; because a discreet person will wisely weigh every motion of his friend. He watches him with a circumspect and jealous eye. He trusts him first with a little, then with a little more; yet still with fear and trembling, until, by repeated ventures, he is so fully confirmed in his opinion, that at last by further trial and experience, he approves of his choice, and dares unbosom all the secrets of his mind without diffidence or restraint. What most essentially and effectually constitutes not only real, but durable friendship, is, a conscientious regard to religion and sacred things. True friends feel mutual delight in worshipping their Creator, Preserver, and Redeemer, together; and in communicating to each other the spiritual emotions of their minds. They joy to tell each other what God has done for them, both in his providence, and through his grace. They are happy to find each other interested in the mediation and benediction of a crucified Saviour. They exult in being alike guided and influenced by the Far be the thought from any verse of mine, * * * * * * ** * COWPER. DECLINE OF IDOLATRY. A letter from a Missionary at Amboyna, has the following article:-"At my entering a large Negari, (village) called Lilebor, N.E. of Amboyna, 800 persons and more came to meet me; and to convince me of their believing in one only God, they had brought all their idols, confessing their superstitions. To prove their sincerity, I desired them to pack the whole together in a large chest, heaped up with stones, and throw it into the sea, in my presence; which was accordingly done." SOUTH SEA MISSION. Extract of a Letter from Mr. Bourne, dated Burder's Point, Tahiti, May 15th, 1821. "THE land of this island is chiefly mountainous. Some of these mountains are an immense height, and seldom free from clouds, which cover the tops of them: between these mountains are several extensive valleys, which abound with the mountain plantain. These are very delicious when perfectly ripe, and when mashed up with milk, resemble very much the strawberry. When the bread-fruit is |