This latter point will
become a far more essential consideration than it is at present; for
differences, however slight, between any two forms, if not blended by
intermediate gradations, are looked at by most naturalists as sufficient to
raise both forms to the rank of species.
Hereafter we shall be compelled to acknowledge that the only distinction
between species and well-marked varieties is, that the latter are known, or
believed to be connected at the present day by intermediate gradations,
whereas species were formerly thus connected. Hence, without rejecting the
consideration of the present existence of intermediate gradations between
any two forms, we shall be led to weigh more carefully and to value higher
the actual amount of difference between them. It is quite possible that
forms now generally acknowledged to be merely varieties may hereafter be
thought worthy of specific names; and in this case scientific and common
language will come into accordance. In short, we shall have to treat
species in the same manner as those naturalists treat genera, who admit
that genera are merely artificial combinations made for convenience. This
may not be a cheering prospect; but we shall at least be freed from the
vain search for the undiscovered and undiscoverable essence of the term
species.
The other and more general departments of natural history will rise greatly
in interest.
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