With claspers and tendrils, they [plants] catch hold, […] and so ramping upon trees, […] they mount up to a great height.

In the first, the trend towards teleocracy is seen to be historically inevitable on account of recent (mainly technological) developments; it is alleged to be the destiny imposed upon Europe (indeed, upon the world) by the 'needs of the epoch'.

a superior figure or letter

The lioness was a mother of four cubs.