The Earth alone among all the elements has always been found friendly to man. The bodies of water deluge him with rain, oppress him with hail, and drown him in inundation. Air rushes in the storm and prepares the tempest, while fire lights up the volcano.
But the Earth, ever kind and indulgent, though constantly harrassed more for the luxuries than the necessities of life has always been found subservient. She spreads his path with flowers and his table with plenty, and though she produces poison, still she supplies the antedote, and returns with interest every good committed to her care.
And when at last he is called upon to walk the dark valley of the Shadow of Death, she once again receives him and enfolds him peacefully within her bosom. Thus admonishing us, from it we came and to it we must sooner or later return....
Thus concludes the lecture.