88 Taylor's model of the avestern 



the tliickness of those masses. In modelling also, although not 

 always attainable, it would be equally desirable to approach as 

 nearly as possible to the same rule. 



I have dwelt the more strenuously upon these methods of 

 illustrating geological phenomena, with a view to attract the at- 

 tention of gentlemen who are about to place before the public, 

 for the benefit and instruction of us all, the result of their respec- 

 tive labors in the field. I would take the liberty of earnestly 

 soliciting their attention to a matter which we aU admit is ex- 

 tremely desirable, — namely, uniformity in the process and 

 modes of representation. Wherever it is possible, let similar 

 scales be employed for the geological sections of different States. 

 Wherever it is practicable, and to a very great degree it already 

 is, let similar colors represent similar formations, wherever they 

 occur. If at this stage we cannot yet settle that extremely diffi- 

 cult point, that " consummation devoutly to be wished," a com- 

 mon nomenclature, let us approach it as near as we can, by the 

 use of common symbols, as a temporary substitute for a common 

 language. 



I think these are matters on which the present meeting might, 

 with perfect propriety, enter. Let it be borne in mind that the 

 accumulation of facts is one thing — a desideratum of primary 

 importance, certainly. But the science of putting together those 

 materials — the exemplification of those facts — to cft'ect the pur- 

 poses of geological elucidation, to reach the understanding, to 

 impress on the mind and memory, is no mean part remaining to 

 be performed. Let it be remembered that facts are compara- 

 tively useless without arrangement ; that they ai-e valueless if they 

 are not presented to the senses in an intelligible and accurate 

 form. The elements wherefrom to erect a geometric figure may 

 be before us, but until we have truly constructed that figure from 

 those elements, our impressions as to its form and proportion are 

 necessarily vague and feeble. The materials wherewdth to con- 

 struct a house or a ship may all be prepared \\ath strict regard to 

 their individual dimensions, but as sej^arate members they con- 

 vey to us no idea of the actual form of that house or that ship. 

 It is the art of the builder then to put together those materials ; 



