138 EMINENT NATURALISTS. 



the " Dictionnaire des Sciences Naturelles." Prominent 

 among these is the one on "Nature," in which he 

 combats the mataphysical systems of pantheism or 

 plurality of gods, and refers everything to the wisdom 

 and goodness of an Almighty Creator. 



Cuvier had a deeply religious nature, and his re- 

 searches into science only intensified his veneration for 

 the great Author of all things. 



His language, both written and spoken, was clear, 

 forcible, precise, and animated, frequently rising to the 

 highest eloquence. The benignity and noble expres- 

 sion of his countenance were remarkable. 



In private life he was kind, affable, and ready to 

 communicate information. He had the greatest love 

 for order and regularity, and rarely allowed himself to 

 be disturbed during the hours set aside for study, but 

 during Iris hours of audience he was accessible to every- 

 body. 



With Iris other accomplishments he was an expert 

 draughtsman, and many of his plates were drawn by 

 himself. He left a large collection of designs intended 

 to illustrate his unfinished work on comparative 

 anatomy. 



The disinterestedness of Cuvier's character is shown 

 not only by the acts of his life, but by the small fortune 

 he left at his death, which was only about £5,000 and a 

 library which cost him a similar sum. The latter was 

 purchased by government and given to various institu- 

 tions, principally to the " Jardin des Plantes." 



When we consider the number of offices he held, and 

 the duties which he conscientiously performed, any one 



