The "Names" which follow, and the occasional "Notes" that accompany them, are intended to illustrate the theory of descent which has been advocated in this discussion. To find a large body of people in Kentucky derived from English sources and bearing Norman surnames is in itself a circumstance of peculiar interest and of almost conclusive weight. But to find noted in connection with an hereditary surname certain characteristics that are common to two races and apparently derived along certain historic lines from the same ethnical source, materially strengthens the argument in favor of the assumed origin of the later or remoter race; and if, therefore, we conclude that the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky are derived from that old Norman strain, we ought to be able to indicate without difficulty characteristic and conspicuous points of resemblance between the original and the derivative stock. Taking in hand the exact and vivid characterization of the old Norman by the contemporary chronicler, Malaterra, we ask ourselves, "Are the Kentuckians also marked by the characteristics here described?" Are they persuasive orators, able lawyers, brilliant fighters, ready and practical thinkers; astute and successful negotiators? Have they scholarly tastes? Social gifts and accomplishments? A passion for travel, exploration, adventure, field sports, and fine horses? "I like him very much," said the English swell St. Aldegonde, speaking of Colonel Campian, the Southern colonel. "He knows all about horses and tobacco."[11]

A little information of this kind ought to be found in our "Notes" by way of giving confirmation to the inference suggested by the "Names." There is something in the name, but not everything. We have a notable—a brilliant—example in the current history of a Kentuckian who is a Norman in almost everything except the name, and he belongs to a family that is characteristically Norman in many respects; and yet it has borne with great distinction for generations a fine old Saxon name. Not a few of our leading families are in the same category. The impartial agencies of evolution have given them their due proportion of Norman or Scandinavian blood, the name being a secondary consideration with the evolutionary Fates.

Note the broad and generous philosophy in these lines; and, some might add, the imaginative touch which almost gives the quatrain a poetic value. The Kentuckian, at least, has but little reason to criticise the stuff of which he is made, particularly since he stands easily first among the modern races of men. This is an estimate from an impartial source—a writer for the English press.[12] Is it not a fit conclusion to our ethnological tale?

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