246 
under the direction of Bureeus, and particularly encouraged 
by Adolphus. . In 1684, the Swedes had completed the ge- 
neral topographical map of Sweden; but it was kept secret, 
and at the end of a century, they had only published some 
parts of it. These maps were constructed for the purpose 
of ameliorating the condition of several provinces of the 
kingdom, which had been desolated by war. The Dutch 
also commenced early to construct topographical maps. 
The measurement of many arcs of the meridian to deter- 
mine the figure of the earth, had very much extended geo- 
detical operations, and had, in many cases, become the 
elements on which topographical maps were based. The 
numerous geodetical surveys called into activity the inven- 
tive powers of the ablest artists in Europe, and instruments 
of extreme accuracy were produced ; and the skill of ob- 
serving and determining angles kept pace with those im- 
provements connected with this important branch of science. 
The repeating principle due to the celebrated Tobias 
Meyer, gave birth to Borda’s circle of repetition about 1789, 
an instrument which has been connected with the most bril- 
liant scientific operations which adorn the annals of the 
eighteenth century. 
Mr. Bald then showed to the Academy some specimens 
of the new map of France, and noticed briefly the trigono- 
metrical survey of England—the Down survey of Ireland— 
the maritime surveys of Ireland—the county surveys, and 
the bog surveys. He made some observations on the great 
importance of accurate maps, especially to professional men 
engaged in conducting public works, such as roads, canals, 
river navigations, harbours, railways, supplying towns with 
water, irrigations; to the geologist and miner, exploring 
the strata, and mineral wealth of the country ; to the states- 
man devising improvements, and developing its resources ; 
and to the poor, by affording useful employment to the 
working classes. 
