'At the same time, geologists were studying the different layers of rock, and thinking about how the world was formed, and wondering about its age. For some time now men have wondered if the world isn't older than the 6000 years calculated by Bishop Ussher. A learned Scotsman called James Hutton even suggested that the world is so old it has 'neither a beginning nor an end,' and that it is impossible for us to measure it.' I paused. 'Perhaps it would be best if you didn't mention any of what I'm saying to your mother. She doesn't like to hear me talk of such things.'
'I won't. Carry on.'
'Hutton thought the world is being sculpted by volcanic action. Others have suggested it has been formed by water. Lately some geologists have taken elements of both and said a series of catastrophes has shaped the world, with Noah's Flood being the latest.'
'What does this have to do with the plesiosaurus?'
'It is concrete evidence that the ichthyosaurus was not a unique instance of extinction, but that there are others-- maybe many extinct creatures. That in turn supports the argument that the earth is in flux.' I looked at my nephew. Johnny was frowning at the light snowflakes swirling about outside. Perhaps he was more like his mother than I realised. 'I'm sorry--I didn't mean to upset you with such talk.'
He shook his head. 'No, it's fascinating. I was just wondering why none of my tutors discuss this in lessons.'
'It is too frightening for many, for it challenges our belief in an all-knowing, all-powerful God, and raises questions about His intentions.'
'What
do
'I believe...' Few had ever asked me what I believed. It was refreshing. 'I am comfortable with reading the Bible figuratively rather than literally. For instance, I think the six days in Genesis are not literal days, but different periods of creation, so that it took many thousands--or hundreds of thousands of years--to create. It does not demean God; it simply gives Him more time to build this extraordinary world.'
'And the ichthyosaurus and plesiosaurus?'
'They are creatures from long, long ago. They remind us that the world is changing. Of course it is. I can see it change when there are landslips at Lyme that alter the shoreline. It changes when there are earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and floods.
And why shouldn't it?'
Johnny nodded. It was a relief to say such things to a sympathetic ear and not be judged either ignorant or blasphemous. Perhaps he could be so open-minded because he was young.
'Look.' He pointed at the windows of the Geological Society house. Figures were blocking the light as the men got up from their tables. It was time for me to lead with my eyes. I took a deep breath and opened the cab door. Johnny leaped out and helped me down, excited to be acting at last. He strode to the door and knocked boldly. The same man answered as had the first time, but Johnny treated him as if he had never spoken to him before. 'Miss Philpot here to see Professor Buckland,' he announced. Perhaps he thought such confidence would open all doors.
The doorman, however, was not taken in by youthful assuredness. 'Women are not allowed in the Society,' he replied, not even glancing at me. It was as if I did not exist.
He began to shut the door, but Johnny stuck his foot on the jamb so that it wouldn't close. 'Well, then, John Philpot Esquire here to see Professor Buckland.'
The doorman looked him up and down. 'What business?'
'It's to do with the plesiosaurus.'
The doorman frowned. The word meant nothing to him, but it sounded complicated and possibly important. 'I'll take up a message.'
'I can only speak to Professor Buckland,' Johnny replied in a haughty tone, enjoying every moment.
The doorman appeared unmoved. I had to step forward, forcing him at last to look at me and acknowledge my presence. 'As it is to do with the very subject of the meeting that is about to start, it would be wise of you to inform Professor Buckland that we are waiting to speak to him.' I looked him straight in the eye, with all of the steadiness and resolve I had discovered in myself on board the
It had its effect: after a moment the doorman dropped his eyes and gave me the briefest of nods. 'Wait here,' he
