1. _It may be inferred from the original constitution of the globe, and the chemical action consequent upon it._ It has been seen above that the _natural_ condition of matter is _cold_, _frozen_, _inactive_, and _solid_: and that the elements of this globe were created in a _simple, uncombined state_. If this mass of elements received a quickening impulse, the chemical laws of _affinity_ and _attraction_, and also the natural law of _gravitation_, would commence exerting their influence. This we know would create a rise in the temperature of the whole mass, in proportion to the _amount_ of matter acted on, and the _force_ of the different principles and agents which were in operation. Upon consideration of these points in regard to our earth, no one can doubt but that they would raise the temperature to an inconceivable height. _Refrigeration_ would commence at the surface as soon as the first violent action was abated, and the water and air began to assume their relative places, through which the heat would escape into celestial space. This refrigeration would be increased by the oxidation of the metals forming the crust of the earth, which would confine the interior heat more effectually, because, the earths are almost complete _non-conductors_ of caloric. Thus the crust of the earth would continue to cool, and the oxidation would thicken it, and, of course, contribute to the reduction of its temperature. From this natural process it is very evident that the earth was much warmer during its first periods; earthquakes, and volcanos much more common than now, and a general instability in the condition of our globe. The deluge was the climax of its alternations, and settled, in some measure, its constitution by a sudden and great reduction of temperature. 2. _It may be inferred from the vast extent of volcanic action, as indicated by the remains of extinct volcanos, and their effects on the earth._ This argument is merely _called up here_, not to be discussed at length, but to be _referred_ to, as it has been mentioned in a preceding part of this paper. It is almost impossible for the ordinary reader, who has not closely studied the geological phenomena which present themselves to the close observer, to conceive of the extent to which volcanic action operated anciently. It would not be exaggeration to say, there was a remote period _when our globe was a single volcano_: the whole surface of it being subject to its action. Though we may ascribe something of the formation of hills and vallies to the action of water, yet, doubtless, the most effectual agent in upheaving the mountains, and even continents, possibly, was volcanic force.