194 Tue Microscope. 
sections of our beloved country this beautiful gathering of 
priests in the temple of science,men whose occupation is so 
peculiarly calculated to call back the wandering intellect to re- 
ligious emotions, and to proclaim to the astonished eye the 
secret workings of an omnipotent creator; men whose investi- 
gations preach with overwhelming eloquence that even in the 
smallest and most minute manifestations of creative power 
looms up the glory of an all-wise governor. We thank thee for 
this unity and sacredness in science which makes the student 
rise from it hallowed and elevated. We thank thee that it so 
powerfully engages the present century, and by its ideal 
majesty and continuous revelation of ever new miracles coun- 
teracts that low and narrow materialism which threatens to 
bury all the sublimest aspirations of our divine nature in the 
common gulf of selfishness and worldliness, and which prompts 
man. the feeble tenant of an hour, to regard himself in the 
pride of his property or the yanity of his knowledge as the 
master of creation. We thank thee that the scientific spirit of 
the age sheds bright light into the haunts of prejudice, drives 
out superstition, and though showing the futility of many be- 
liefs which seemed to be as firmly established as the foundations 
of the earth, tends to fortify true religion by leading men closer 
together, and by teaching them more and more forcibly that 
in spite of outward differences they are all brethren, children of 
the same loving Father. With a particular sense of our joy do 
we express our gratitude, Heavenly Father, that our beloved 
city has the honor and the privilege of greeting as guests so 
many distinguished visitors and eminent investigators of thy 
works, every one of them a minister who teaches thy truth. 
Grant that this assembly may exercise a lasting influence on 
our fellow-citizens, and animate them to ever greater efforts in 
reaching and interpreting thy revelations in the glorious book 
of nature. Grant that this society may continually grow and 
increase in usefulness. Grant that the spirit of peace and 
brotherly love may preside over the deliberations of this body, 
and crown with success all those who work for their own in- 
struction and for the enlightenment of their fellow-men. 
Send thy blessings upon our proceedings, that thy spirit may 
rest upon all who participate in them, the spirit of wisdom and 
