 October
8th - The natural history of these islands is eminently curious,
and well deserves attention. Most of the organic productions are
aboriginal creations [endemic species] found nowhere else; there
is even a difference between the inhabitants of the different
islands; yet all show a marked relationship with those of [South]
America, though separated from that continent by an open space
of ocean, between 500 and 600 miles in length. Considering the
small size of these islands, we feel the more astonished at the
number of their aboriginal [endemic] beings, and at their confined
range. Seeing every height crowned with its crater, and the boundaries
of most of the lava streams still distinct, we are led to believe
that within a period, geologically recent, the unbroken ocean
was here spread out. Hence, both in space and time, we seem to
be brought somewhat near to that great fact, that the mystery
of mysteries - the first appearance of new beings on this earth.
|
