PKEFACE. 



* 



THE following pages were commenced solely in the 

 hope of affording such a simple, and, at the same 

 time, such a systematical introduction to the Linnean 

 System of Zoology, as might induce young persons to 

 an earnest pursuit of the study of Natural History. 

 It has ever been a principal object and endeavour of 

 the author of this little work to extend, as widely as 

 lay in his power, the knowledge of this interesting 

 science ; because he knows it to be fraught with the 

 most sublime and important instruction. It not only 

 affords us a clear and comprehensive proof of the 

 existence of an Almighty Being, and supplies us with 

 the fullest and most satisfactory demonstrations of 

 his wisdom and goodness, but also furnishes us with 

 abundant sources of observation, of reflection, and 

 comfort, which are applicable to us under every cir- 

 cumstance, and in every condition of life. 



It would not have been difficult to have rendered 

 the present publication more scientific ; but this, as 

 the author conceives, would, in a great degree, have 

 prevented it from answering the purpose which he 

 had most at heart. It is merely intended as an in- 



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