LIFE OF JAMES DWIGHT DANA 



and in some of the natural sciences, while in all depart- 

 ments he had made good attainments. Professor Silli- 

 man added that the candidate evinced uncommon interest 

 in physical science, and that his attainments in chemistry, 

 geology, and mineralogy were of the most respectable 

 character and such as indicate ingenuity, industry, and 

 perseverance. Dana gladly accepted the appointment 

 of schoolmaster in the navy, which he had solicited, and 

 entered the service of the government ; but before em- 

 barking he returned to the college, passed his final 

 examinations, and was thus qualified to proceed to the 

 degree of Bachelor of Arts, which was conferred upon 

 him, with his class, in 1833. 



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