VI PREFACE. 



But beyond this it has been deemed of special importance 

 to give, with as much precision as possible^ an account of the 

 characteristic habits of each species; a large portion of the 

 particulars of which is derived from attentive observation 

 under favourable circumstances through a considerable extent 

 of time; coupled also with frequent communications from 

 practical fishermen of great intelligence; who have always 

 been ready to acknowledge small obligations by a free com- 

 munication of facts in their experience. 



And in addition to these matters an object has been kept 

 in view, which the Author has deemed of high importance, 

 although it has not usually found a place in works on Natural 

 History; and it is to him a matter of regret that it has not 

 been worked out to such extent as the subject demands. He 

 has laboured, however, by repeated examination of the organs 

 and internal structure of the several species and orders or 

 classes of fishes to trace the connection of their several parts 

 with their instincts and modes of life; and in all these 

 researches, of which particulars are scattered through the 

 work, he has been able to discern such a connection and 

 reciprocal dependance as to establish the conviction of a 

 presiding mind that has formed and set in action the whole; 

 so that the inhabitants of the water are not less furnished 

 than those of the land with the means of existence, and with 

 faculties which enable them to turn what may appear to be 

 unfavourable circumstances to good account. Linnasus inquires 



Quis, nisi vidissit, pisces habitare sub undascrede-ret ? 



And his proper answer is 



Quam sapienter ea fecisti! 0, Jebovah! 



