ADDRESS TO THE READER. Xil- 
general descriptions of fossil remains, and of the circum- 
stances under which they occur,—omitting the scientific 
terms and descriptions,—and a cursory examination of the 
illustrations, will probably satisfy his curiosity ; and the 
work may be transferred to the library for occasional refe- 
rence, or taken as a travelling companion and guide to some 
interesting geological district. 
But the Book “must be swallowed, that vs, read, but not 
curiously,” by the reader desirous of forming a collection of 
organic remains. A general acquaintance with its contents, 
and a careful investigation of the characters of the fossils, 
and comparison with the figures and descriptions, will be 
requisite to enable the amateur collector to determine the 
nature of the specimens he may discover. 
By the StupEnt the Book “ must be digested, that rs, read 
wholly, and with diligence and attention.” He should fully 
comprehend one subject before he advances to the considera- 
tion of another, and should test the solidity of his knowledge 
by practical research. He should visit some of the localities 
described ; collect specimens, and develope them with his 
own hands; examine their structure microscopically ; nor 
rest satisfied until he has determined their general characters, 
and ascertained their generic and specific relations. Nor is 
this an arduous or irksome task ; by a moderate degree of 
attention, a mind of average ability may quickly overcome 
the apparent difficulties, and will find in the knowledge thus 
acquired, and in the accession of mental vigour which such 
investigations never fail to impart, an ample reward for any 
expenditure of time and trouble. 
