PICTURESftUE CHARACTERS OF ROCKS. 59 



perienced geologist of the advantages which he may 

 derive from a correct and practised eye ; since they 

 are far from inconsiderable^ if the precautions incul- 

 cated at the beginning of this chapter are regarded. 

 Their object is to caution the student against that 

 confidence which is, too often 5 both the result of 

 indolence and its excuse ; and to inculcate on him 

 the necessity of establishing habits of careful and 

 minute observation. An eye for the physiognomy of 

 a country must be acquired by practice ; and it will 

 never be acquired by him who shall attempt to find a 

 royal road to that rugged eminence which has never 

 yet been attained without patient study and toilsome 

 exertion. 



