HONOURABLE AND RIGHT REVEREND 



SHUTE BARRINGTON, LL. D. 



LORD BISHOP OF DURHAM. 



My Lord, 



To your suggestion the world is indebted for the existence of Dr. 

 Paiey's valuable work on Natural Theology. The universal and 

 permanent esteem in which it has been held in this country, and its 

 favourable reception in France, even after the desolating influence 

 of the Revolution, have abundantly approved your Lordship's selec- 

 tion both of the subject and of the person to whom you intrusted it. 



In looking round, then, for a patron lor these Illustrations, 

 it was natural to have recourse to him who was the original sug- 

 gestor of the work which it is their object to explain. Nor was I 

 disappointed in my wish ; your Lordship not only condescending to 

 approve of the design, but to encourage me in its prosecution, by 

 your very liberal support. For this distinguished honour you will 

 believe me deeply sensible ; and if I may indulge the hope that my 

 humble efforts will increase the utility of so eminent a writer, I 

 shall consider it the highest gratification. 



I am, my Lord, 



With great veneration, 

 Your Lordship's most obliged. 



And obedient servant, 



JAMES PAXTON, 

 Oxford, January 1, 1826. 



