PEEFACE. 



The present work consists of descriptions, essays and 

 discussions on such themes as may be conceived suited to 

 occupy the attention of a geologist who tries to contem- 

 plate his vocation in the whole breadth of its relations. 

 The themes range from descriptive and literary to scientific, 

 historical and philosophic, while the style of their treat- 

 ment is intended to suit the general reader. They present 

 the results of some of the collateral and recreative occu- 

 pations of science, rather than of its most serious and 

 characteristic efforts, and should possess, therefore, a gen- 

 eral interest. The scientist on his vacation becomes very 

 much like other people. He feels, thinks, imagines, and 

 enjoys, only with an intenser action in consequence of 

 penetrating a little deeper into the nature, relations and 

 significance of things around him. In the intervals of his 

 serious work his attention is engaged by the subjects which 

 interest other men; and if his intelligence is many-sided, 

 he must feel that he has something to say on many topics. 

 His scientific habits, acquired under the rigorous exactions 

 of his profession, confer upon him a peculiar aptitude for 

 observation, and a safe facility in reaching conclusions. 



For many reasons, indeed, it is desirable that men 

 engaged in science should turn their attention frequently 

 to the subjects which interest their fellow scientists and 

 fellow men. Such a course will save them personally from 

 entertaining narrow views of the world. It will also tend 

 to identify them with the society in which they move, and 



