MEMOIR OP RAY. 69 



rests were beginning to lose their influence in the 

 near anticipation of the most glorious manifestations 

 of the Creator. 



His varied and useful labours have justly caused 

 him to be regarded as the father of natural history 

 in this country ; and his character is in every re- 

 spect such as we should wish to belong to the indi- 

 vidual enjoying that high distinction. His claims 

 to the regard of posterity are not more founded 

 on his intellectual capacity than on his moral ex- 

 cellence. He maintained a steady and uncompro- 

 mising adherence to his principles, at a time when 

 vacillation and change were so common as almost 

 to escape unnoticed and uncensured. From some 

 conscientious scruples, which he shared in common 

 with many of the wisest and most pious men of his 

 time, he did not hesitate to sacrifice his views of 

 preferment in the church, although his talents and 

 learning, joined to the powerful influence of his nu- 

 merous friends, might have justified him in aspiring 

 to a considerable station. The benevolence of his 

 disposition continually appears in the generosity of 

 his praise, the tenderness of his censure, and solici- 

 tude to promote the welfare of others. His modesty 

 and self-abasement were so great that they transpire 

 insensibly on all occasions ; and his affectionate and 

 grateful feelings led him, as has been remarked, to 

 fulfil the sacred duties of friendship even to his own 

 prejudice, and to adorn the bust of his friend with 

 wreaths which he himself might justly have assumed. 



