44 ADVANTAGES OF KNOWLEDGE. [1834. 



a warning that he must not expect to be able to 

 read the difficult facts in geology until the alphabet 

 had been mastered, he advises young Hurry to select 

 one particular subject on which to exercise his observa- 

 tion, and suggests that he should study, for example, 

 the action of water, not in reference to its chemical 

 properties nor its stagnant state, but its powerful 

 mechanical action when in a state of motion. We 

 quote the sequel, as it may be a help and encourage- 

 ment to some earnest young geologist : 



"We are all endowed with reason and observation, of which it 

 is your duty to avail yourself to the utmost extent. Geology is 

 entirely a science of observation and comprehension ; accustom 

 yourself on all occasions to employ those talents notice the 

 effects of all you witness, study their causes, and you cannot fail 

 to become a good geologist. And what can afford more delight 

 than the free use of that reason wherewith nature has endowed 

 us all ! What infinite pleasure results from witnessing the 

 powers and exercising the capabilities of your own mind ! And 

 above all with what ecstasy, with what gratification, with what 

 feelings of admiration, of gratitude, and of enthusiasm, do you 

 trace out the mighty works of the Deity, do you fathom their 

 mysteries and unravel their intricacies ! You read what must 

 have been His thoughts, His ideas, His intentions, when you 

 thus perceive the results of His wisdom and His power, for in 

 everything will you find intent and purpose. When thus sur- 

 rounded by and studying His works, how can you fail to look 



"Thro 5 Nature up to Nature's God" ? 



This was the letter of a mere youth. Its influence on 

 his friend in the land of exile can never be known. 



