This quote touches upon the profound mystery of the Earth's ancient past and humanity's limited understanding of how our continents and civilizations came into being. It highlights the scientific perspective that the Earth is enormously old, with geological processes occurring over millions of years, leading to the formation of continents whose origins remain partly enigmatic. The statement acknowledges the efforts of geologists like Dr. Hutton, who contributed significantly to the study of the Earth's history, yet admits that there are aspects of our planet's past that remain obscure.

The acknowledgment that continents have been 'peopled we know not how' suggests the ancient and perhaps complex process of human migration and settlement, which is often shrouded in mystery given the paucity of direct evidence from prehistoric times. It reminds us that despite our advancements in science, there are fundamental questions about the origins of life, human civilization, and the geological transformations that have shaped our world that continue to elude full understanding.

Reflecting on this, it becomes clear that human pursuit of knowledge is an ongoing journey. Our scientific endeavors have unraveled many secrets, yet the origins of the Earth and mankind still evoke wonder and curiosity. It emphasizes humility in our scientific pursuits, acknowledging that some truths are still hidden beyond our reach. This perspective fosters respect for Earth's ancient history and encourages continued investigation into its mysteries, inspiring humility and awe amidst scientific progress.