lly as difficult to understand, fully as mysterious, as is the
other. The difference is but one of degree, not of kind. Moreover, the one
mystery in the case of the "physiological unit" explains all, while with
regard to the gemmule, as we have seen, it has to be supplemented by other
powers and tendencies, each distinct, and each in itself inexplicable and
profoundly mysterious. [Page 219]

That there should be physiological units possessed of the power attributed
to them, harmonizes with what has recently been put forward by Dr. H.
Charlton Bastian; who maintains that under fit conditions the simplest
organisms develop themselves into relatively large and complex ones. This
is not supposed by him to be due to any inheritance of ancestral gemmules,
but to direct growth and transformation of the most minute and the simplest
organisms, which themselves, by all reason and analogy, owe their existence
to immediate transformation from the inorganic world.

Thus, then, there are grave difficulties in the way of the reception of the
hypothesis of Pangenesis, which moreover, if established, would leave the
evolution of individual organisms, when thoroughly analysed, little if at
all less mysterious or really explicable than it is at present.

As was said at the beginning of this chapter, "Pangenesis" and "Natural
Selection" are quite separable and distinct hypotheses. The fall of one of
these by no means necessarily includes that of the other. Nevertheless, Mr.
Darwin has associated them closely together, and, therefore, the refutation
of Pangenesis may render it advisable for those who have hitherto accepted
"Natural Selection" to reconsider that theory. [Page 220]

* * * * *

CHAPTER XI.

SPECIFIC GENESIS.

Review of the statements and arguments of preceding
chapters.--Cumulative argument against predominant action of "Natural
Selection."--Whether anything positive as well as negative can be
enunciated.--Constancy of laws of nature does not necessarily imply
constancy of specific evolution.--Possible exceptional stability of
existing epoch.--Probability that an internal cause of change
exists.--Innate powers must be conceived as existing somewhere or
other.--Symbolism of molecular action under vibrating
impulses.--Professor Owen's statement.--Statement of the Author's
view.--It avoids the difficulties which oppose "Natural Selection."--It
har