47 



interest than our own, as everv Jay evinces some new fact illustrative of the 

 extraordinary skill, energy, and ingenuity of our citizens— qualities in which 

 they are equalled by few, and surpassed by no other people. If such be the 

 case in our not very advanced stale of science, what important results might not be 

 anticipated with more extensive practical experiments, greater knowledge of ab- 

 stract science, and the collection and diffusion of minute economical information 

 in connexion with the useful arts 1 But I feel that it is quite unnecessary to en- 

 large upon a subject on which so much might be said and written. 



While indulging in these patriotic sentiments, which T believe are common to 

 us all, it has occurred to me that perhaps no better disposition could be made of 

 the munificent bequest to the United States, by an enlightened foreigner, for the 

 establishment of an institution at Washington for the "diffusion of knowledge 

 among men," than to place it under the direction of a Society which has been 

 organized for the express purpose of carrying into effect similar, and indeed I may 

 add, identical views with those contemplated by the philanthropical and philo- 

 sophical testator. One among many reasons that might might be urged for this 

 arrangement would be, the securing in its favor the general and perhaps univer- 

 sal influence of scientific men, whose patriotic labors would thus be brought into 

 active co-operation with the Smithsonian Institution, whose funds would enable 

 the Society to collect and diffuse throughout the United States a vast amount of 

 diversified and valuable information. 



With the best wishes for the success of the Institution, and assurances for your- 

 self of high regard and consideration, I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient 

 humble servant, V. MAXCY. 



A copy of a circular was read, addressed to the principal 

 scientific institutions of Europe, announcing officially the es- 

 tablishment of the National Institution, and requesting their cor- 

 respondence. 



In consequence of a resolution introduced by the honorable 

 Governeur Kemble, that each member of Congress should be 

 invited to bring specimens of the natural productions of his 

 district on his return to Washington, the following circular let- 

 ter was addressed to the members by the Directors : 



WAsmiTGTON, Feh-uary 9, 1841. 

 SiH : The National Institution for the Promotion of Science and the Useful Arts, 

 established at the seat of Government, is desirous of procuring specimens of the 

 natural productions of every portion of the United States, and for that purpose re- 

 spectfully asks your aid and co-operation. The district you represent doubtless 

 possesses many important minerals and vegetable productions, which might prove 

 of great value lo the arts if they were generally made known. Specimens of such 

 productions being brought to Washington will not only advance the objects of 

 the institution, but will prove advantageous to the country whence they come. 



