AND THE OBSEEVATION OF BIEDS. 55 



As we come to understand the relations and mode of existence in 

 the varioiis organisms by which we are surrounded, and observe the 

 wonderful adaptation of structure to habits, we are compelled to 

 admit that one of the chief advantages of the study is our great 

 gain in knowledge. The number of new facts which may be daily 

 acquired by practical outdoor observation is almost incredible. 



Consider for a moment the extent of the Animal, the Vegetable, 

 or the Mineral Kingdom. Consider what a world in itself is each 

 of these, and what a multitude of facts may be gathered concerning 

 a single class in any one of them ; nay, concerning even a single 

 species. 



An eminent statesman,* in a speech delivered some time since at 

 the opening of a School of Science, aptly showed that amongst the 

 advantages resulting from a contemplation of natural objects were 

 the triumphs of science which had been effected by the application 

 of experience thereby gained. " The shell of the lobster suggested 

 the strong tube to Watt ; the earthworm the tunnel to Brunei ; the 

 bii-d's wing produced the oar; the gyrations of a hawk the wheel; 

 while the plough was founded on intelKgent observation of certain 

 practices of the pig." Be this as it may, there can be no doubt 

 that a correct knowledge of natural objects is of very great assist- 

 ance to us when endeavouring to delineate them, and many of the 

 improvements observable in painting, sculpture, and other arts, is, 

 in a great measure, attributable to a more truthful representation 

 of Nature. 



The occupation which a study of Natural History gives to the 

 mind is a further advantage, not only to ourselves, but to others, 

 and cannot be too highly estimated ; for while it diverts the mind 

 from what is sensual and degrading, and induces a greater tone of 

 reverence, it at the same time suggests practical results beneficial 

 to our fellow-creatures. 



It only remains for us to consider, then, in what way we may 

 gain the object in view, and derive the pleasures and advantages of 

 which I have spoken. In the first place, the art of seeing is indis- 

 pensable, and this, coupled with a good memory and a method of 

 study, will form the basis of operations. 



It is chiefly because people neither use their eyes sufficiently, nor 

 exercise their memory, that they remain so long in ignorance of 

 important truths. It is wonderful how sharp the sight may become 

 by practice, and the close observer of Nature will detect the most 

 beautiful though minute objects, which a casual observer would 

 pass unnoticed. 



To all of us this faculty is a natural gift, but how few, alas ! 

 exercise it. It is true, with some it is ever active, and increases in 

 proportion as it is called forth. With others it lies dormant, and is 

 only aroused when they are convinced that some advantage will 

 follow from its exercise. 



* The Right Hon. "W. E. Gladstone, Speech delivered at the opening of the 

 School of Science, Liverpool, Octoher, 1861. 



