The Editor,

Re: "Evolution is not just a nice idea; it is based on evidence," the Now letters, September 30.

I have always understood that true science, good science, is based on observable evidence. I don't think Mr. Payne could find much objection in that statement.

Mr. Payne declares in part, "All life on our earth evolved from a common ancestor, a single simple cell that came into existence some 3.8 billion years ago...". If this is a true statement that Mr. Payne wants passed on to his students, then I wish to challenge Mr. Payne with two questions. First, where did this so-called "single simple cell" come from? Second, would you please put forward the name of the individual who existed 4.5 billion years ago who observed this "single simple cell" (remember, true science, good science, is based on observeable evidence) morph into what we now have as the universe, and in particular our earth and all living things upon it?

Brian Batke

Surrey