Hearing. 65 



complex and perfect instruments, were not long 

 since common earth, dust upon which we perchance 

 have trod. 



\Ve can understand the mechanism of the eye, 

 we can comprehend the wisdom that devised it ; but 

 the preparation of materials, and the adjustment of 

 parts, speak of a power and skill to which man can 

 never hope to attain. When he sees his most cun- 

 ning workmanship surpassed both in plan and exe- 

 cution, shall he tail to recognise design ? Shall we 

 fail to recognise a builder when we contemplate such 

 a work ? 



iring is the only other sense connected with 

 ial mechanical contrivance. It is as well adapt- 

 ed to its pu: se of sight, although the 

 ear in its mechanism may not be so wonderful as 

 the eye, and the use of some of its parts more diffi- 

 cult of comprehension. Hearing glVCS us knowledge 

 of objects far beyond the reach of vision, when 

 thick walls, mountain ranges, and part of the con- 

 vex earth divides them from us. It is perfect in 

 darkness, when HTC eye is powerless. This sense is 

 affected only by vibrations of the air, and the ma- 

 chinery connected with it is adapted to collect them 

 and transmit the impression to the inner portion 

 of the ear, where the auditory nerve like a watchful 

 sentinel waits and watches to telegraph the signals 

 to the brain. We are thus warned of danger in the 

 distance; we are invited to enjoyment; we hold con- 

 verse with friends ; and have poured in upon us, for 

 our instruction, the mingled sounds of all animate 



