In the general survey of climate, and of its reference to organization, given in the preceding chapter, we have seen, on the one hand, that, by a series of wonderful expedients, the climate or temperature of the greater portion of the earth's surface, has been so equalized, as to be brought within the range of organic existence. On the other hand, we shall find, that by a series of expedients, not less wonderful, organic existence has been so diversified and extended, as to include all the possible varieties of soil and climate. Hence, the arrangement taken altogether, presents us with such extraordinary instances of mutual adaptation of its various constituents to each other, as to admit of explanation, only upon the supposition of the whole being different parts of the same magnificent Design; while the infinite variety, where all might have been otherwise, must be considered as equally indicative of the Benevolence, and the Power of the Designer.

Next to Climate, the circumstance in which organized beings are most immediately concerned, is Soil; a subject already alluded to, but which it will be necessary to illustrate a little further before we proceed.

The soil is that collection of matters, more or less in a state of comminution, which immediately covering the general surface of the earth, fills up its minor inequalities, and rounds off its asperities.