The bearing upon evolution of the fact that species are varying combinations of relatively few characters is most important. Combined with the fact of hybridization it indicates that the main problem of evolution is that of the origin of specific characteristics. A character, once arisen in an individual, may become a part of any species with which that individual can hybridize. Given the successive origin of the characters A, B, C, D, E, F, in various individuals capable of intergenerating with the mass of the species, it is clear that such characters would in time become similarly combined on many individuals; and the similar individuals, taken together, would constitute a new species. The adjustment of the species would be perfected by the elimination of such combinations as were disadvantageous.
Cold Spring Harbor, New York,
May 20, 1909.
LITERATURE CITED.
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