The metaphysical system of Leibnitz is quite true as an a priori system; it is well deduced. It is evident that a beneficett deity out of all possible worlds would choose the best. All this is true as thus stated, but, when applied to this world, is false. This world is not the best of possible worlds. Alas for us, it is far from it!

Had Leibnitz lived in our time what would he have thought of this best of possible worlds, seeing that its conservation is by its destruction, and that, where six animals alone can live nature takes care to create fifty, so that forty‑four of them shall have to suffer and to die?