To reasoning of this description there is an obvious reply. Even if it be granted that the alternatives to the theory of natural selection as set forth by Professor Poulton are untenable, it does not follow that natural selection affords an adequate explanation. If A, B, C and D are charged with theft and the prosecutor proves that neither A nor B nor C committed the theft, this will not suffice to secure the conviction of D. It is quite possible that a fifth person, E, may be the culprit.
Much of the popularity of the theory of natural selection is due to the fact that biologists have not yet been able to discover a substitute for it.
It seems to us that the proper method of making progress in science is not to bolster up natural selection by ingenious speculations, but to look around for other hitherto undiscovered causes.
KING-CROW OR DRONGO
This very conspicuous black bird (Dicrurus ater), ranging from Africa to China, is a striking feature of the landscape wherever it occurs.
DRONGO-CUCKOO
The fork of the tail in this bird is unique among cuckoos, but is nevertheless much less developed than in the supposed model, and may be an adaptation for evolution in flight, as such tails usually appear to be.