104 



Each branch requires its appropriate training, and yields its own pecuhar frmt. 

 A study of the natural world teaches not the truth to revealed rehgion ; nor do 

 the truths of reUgion inform us of the inductions of physical science. Hence it 

 is that men whose studies are confined to one branch of knowledge, often learn 

 to overrate themselves, and so become narrow-minded. Bigotry is a besetting 

 sin of our nature. Too often it has been the attendant of reUgious zeal, but it 

 is most bitter and unsparing when found with the irreUgious. A philosopher, 

 understanding not one atom of their spirit, will sometimes scofi at the labours 

 of rehgious men ; and one who calls himself religious will, perhaps, turn a haish 

 judgment, and thank God that he is not as the philosopher, forgettmg aU the 

 while that man can ascend to no knowledge, except by faculties given to him by 

 his Creator's hand ; and that aU natural knowledge is but a reflection of the will 

 of God. In harsh judgments, such as these, there is not only much folly, but much 

 sin True wisdom consists in seeing how all the faculties of the mmd and all 

 parts of knowledge bear upon each other, so as to work together to a common 

 end, ministering at once to the happiness of man, and his Maker's glory. 



Gentlemen,-! return you my most sincere thanks for the honor conferred 

 upon me, in selecting me as President for the second year of your existence, and 

 for the courtesy you have shown me during the period of my office ; and with 

 pleasure I resign it to Mr. Symonds, whose abiUty and zeal for the promotion 

 of natural science are well known to you all ; assured that you could not have 

 made choice of anyone who will carry out the objects of our club with more 

 advantage than he who so readily co-operated in its formation, and has been so 

 successful in his attempt to estabUsh a sister club at Malvern. 



Bridstow Vicarage, 



30th Nov., 1855. 



