The French leaders in geological science had been held back not only by awe of Cuvier but by recollections of Scheuchzer.

Ridicule has always been a serious weapon in France, and the ridicule which finally overtook the supporters of the attempt of Scheuchzer, Mazurier, and others, to square geology with Genesis, was still remembered.

From the great body of French geologists, therefore, Boucher secured at first no aid.

His support came from the other side of the Channel.

The most eminent English geologists, such as Falconer, Prestwich, and Lyell, visited the beds at Abbeville and St.
Acheul, convinced themselves that the discoveries of Boucher, Rigollot, and their colleagues were real, and then quietly but firmly told England the truth.
And now there appeared a most effective ally in France.