"Now, I do not mean to suggest that scientific differences should be
settled by universal suffrage, but I do conceive that solid proofs must
be met by something more than empty and unsupported assertions. Yet
during the two years through which this preposterous controversy has
dragged its weary length, Professor Owen has not ventured to bring
forward a single preparation in support of his often-repeated
assertions.
"The case stands thus, therefore:--Not only are the statements made by
me in consonance with the doctrines of the best older authorities, and
with those of all recent investigators, but I am quite ready to
demonstrate them on the first monkey that comes to hand; while
Professor Owen's assertions are not only in diametrical opposition to
both old and new authorities, but he has not produced, and, I will add,
cannot produce, a single preparation which justifies them"
I now leave this subject, for the present.--For the credit of my calling
I should be glad to be, hereafter, for ever silent upon it. But,
unfortunately, this is a matter upon which, after all that has
occurred, no mistake or confusion of terms is possible--and in affirming
that the posterior lobe, the posterior cornu, and the hippocampus minor
exist in certain Apes, I am stating either that which is true, or that
which I must know to be false.
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