In short, the animal and vegetable lines, diverging widely above, join below in a loop.

Is it philosophical, is it quite allowable, to assume without evidence from fossil plants that the family or any of the genera was once larger and wide spread? and occupied a continuous area?

Increased powers of investigation- microscopical and chemical- might be expected to discover them. This expectation has not been fulfilled.

I take it for granted that you do not wish to hear an echo from the pulpit nor from the theological class-room.

I know some people who never have any difficulties to speak of. The moment I understood your premisses, I felt sure you had a real foundation to hold on.

I am sufficiently convinced already that the members of a profession know their own calling better than anyone else can know it.