ADVERTISEMENT. 



This volume forms the twenty-third of a series, composed of original memoirs on 

 different branches of knowledge, published at the expense, and under the direction, 

 of the Smithsonian Institution. The publication of this series forms part of a general 

 plan adopted for carrying into effect the benevolent intentions of James Smithson, 

 Esq., of England. This gentleman left his property in trust to the United States 

 of America, to found, at "Washington, an institution which should bear his own 

 name, and have for its objects the '^increase and diffusion of knowledge amon<» 

 men." This trust was accepted by the Government of the United States, and an 

 Act of Congress was passed August 10, 1846, constituting the President and the 

 other principal executive officers of the general government, the Chief Justice of 

 the Supreme Court, the Mayor of Washington,^and such other persons as they might 

 elect honorary members, an establishment under the name of the " Smithsonian 

 Institution fok the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men." The 

 members and honorary members of this establishment are to hold stated and special 

 meetings for the supervision of the afiliirs of the Institution, and for the advice 

 and instruction of a Board of Kegents, to whom the financial and other affairs are 

 intrusted. 



The Board of Regents consists of two members ex officio of the establishment, 

 namely, the Vice-President of the United States and the Cliicf Justice of the Supreme 

 Court, together with twelve other members, three of whom are appointed by the 

 Senate from its own body, three by the House of Representatives from its'members, 

 and six persons appointed by a joint resolution of both houses. To this Board is 

 given the power of electing a Secretary and other officers, for conducting the active 

 operations of the Institution. 



To carry into effect the purposes of the testator, the plan of organization should 

 evidently embrace two objects : one, the increase of knowledge by the addition of 

 new truths to the existing stock; the other, tlie diffusion of knowledge, thus 

 increased, among men. No restriction is made in favor of any kind of knowledge ; 

 and, hence, each branch is entitled to, and should receive, a share of attention. 



' This office has been abolished. 



