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nydus/Life and Letters of Charles Darwin — Volume 1Public

This volume presents a collection of Charles Darwin's personal correspondence, organized primarily by the subjects of his research and publications. The letters are supplemented by excerpts from his diary to provide a chronological framework for his professional career and personal character.

Page 352 of 696
Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1.VIII. — RELIGION.

the progress of civilization than you seem inclined to admit. Remember what risk the nations of Europe ran, not so many centuries ago of being overwhelmed by the Turks, and how ridiculous such an idea now is! The more civilised so-called Caucasian races have beaten the Turkish hollow in the struggle for existence. Looking to the world at no very distant date, what an endless number of the lower races will have been eliminated by the higher civilized races throughout the world. But I will write no more, and not even mention the many points in your work which have much interested me. I have indeed cause to apologise for troubling you with my impressions, and my sole excuse is the excitement in my mind which your book has aroused.

I beg leave to remain, Dear Sir, Yours faithfully and obliged, CHARLES DARWIN.

[My father spoke little on these subjects, and I can contribute nothing from my own recollection of his conversation which can add to the impression here given of his attitude towards Religion. Some further idea of his views may, however,

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