Darwin

A memorable event occurred at uambridge, on Saturday last, which has given rise to much comment and surprise that sucli a degree of intolerance should exist in England. On that day tlie degree of Doctor of Oivil Laws was confërred npon Charles Darwin by the University of Cambridge. Notwithstanding the illustrious rank whieh Mr, Darwin has long held in the scientifio world, the clerical power has been stroDg enough in the governing body of the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford to prevent aüy honorary degree from being awarded to him heretofore. The capture of the honorary diploma by Mr. Darwin was, therefore, regarded as a great victory for the anti-jclerical party, and this fact has given the occasion much interest that it would not otherwise have had. Accordingly, on Saturday, Mr. Darwin's friends presented themselves in great force, determined that the moral effect of a large representation of scientiñc and literary men present in the interest of the heretoforeneglected scientist should not be wanting. Undergraduates throDgeJ the gallaries of the great hall, and the desire to see the savaiit of Down was universal. When Darwin and Huxleyappeared, the former robed in the scarlet gown of a doctor, tremendous and enthusiastic cheers broke fortn frora all parts of the building. The massive features of Darwin wero immobile as stone. No one present could detect even a trace of gratification in the lines of the face or in the expression of the eyes, yet it certainly was a moment of great victory for the aged philosopher. The impressive ceremony was diversified by the usual hooting and chaffing by the students, which was far worse than the uproar heard in Oxford when Gen. Grant received a similar degree. The license accorded to "the boys" on these occasions far exceeds anything that can be imagined by the college faculties of the United States. The average American college President would have torn his hair in rage at a critical moment in the proeeedings. An effigy of a monkey robed in an undergraduate's gown was lowered into the middle of the hall from the most prominent point in the gallery. Thi3 effigy bore a legend in large letters, "The missing link." Notwithstanding all this ciiaffing and laughter, there was much sincere enthusiasm. In the evening Dr. Darwin was further honoretl with a public dinner, but the delicate health of the savant prevented his attendanee. Prof. Huxley made the speech in response to the toast of Mr. Darwin's health. The event has, beyond question, created a deep and gratifying impression among the ecientific classes throughout Englaüd.