THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION — CLAEK. 155 



from generous benefactors, varying in amounts from a quarter of 

 a million to the modest, but none the less acceptable, sums of a 

 thousand dollars or less, until the total invested permanent fund now 

 aggregates more than a million dollars, and is gradually increasing 

 from year to year. 



In discussing the acceptance of the Smithson bequest in 183G, John 

 Quincy Adams, in the House of Representatives, said : 



Of all the foundations of establishments for pious or charitable uses, which 

 ever signalized the spirit of the age, or the comprehensive beneficence of the 

 founder, none can be named more deserving of the approbation of mankind 

 than this. Should it be faithfully carried into effect, with an earnestness and 

 sagacity of application, and a steady perseverance of pursuit, proportioned to the 

 means furnished by the will of the founder and to the greatness and simplicity 

 of his design as by himself declared " the increase and diffusion of knowledge 

 among men^" it is no extravagance of anticipation to declare that his name 

 will be hereafter enrolled among the eminent benefactors of mankind. 



Eighty years have passed since Mr. Adams spoke those prophetic 

 words. The name of James Smithson, and the Smithsonian Institu- 

 tion, which he founded, are to-day known to all men of science, 

 and everywhere are held in the highest esteem. 



