We should have thought it, therefore, of all things in the world the least likely that a representation of any theory of Hunter's should have disturbed the harmony which ought to exist between men engaged in scientific inquiries. It shows, however, the value of confining ourselves as strictly as possible to phenomena, and the conclusions deducible from them. Nothing could possibly be more philosophical than the terms in which Mr. Abernethy undertook to advocate Mr. Hunter's views of life. His definitions of hypothesis, the conditions on which he founded its legitimate character, the modesty with which he applies it, and the clearness with which he states how easily our best-grounded suppositions may be subverted by new facts, are very lucid and beautiful, and give a tone to the lectures (as we should have thought) the very last calculated to have led to the consequences which followed.
[35] "For this Hunterian Theory of Life, which its real author so stoutly maintains, &c. is nowhere to be found in the published writings of Mr. Hunter."—See Lawrence's Two Lectures (Notes).
[36] Vol. i, p. 214. Note.
[37] Vol. i, p. 217.
CHAPTER XIX.
"Oft expectation fails, and most oft there
Where most it promises."
All's Well that ends Well.