PREFACE. 



NATURAL HISTORY, considered in its utmost extent, 

 comprehends two objects. First, that of discovering, 

 ascertaining, and naming, the various productions of 

 Nature; secondly, that of describing the properties, 

 manners, and relations which they bear to us, and to 

 each other. The first, which is the most difficult part 

 of this science, is systematical, dry, and mechanical. 

 The second is more amusing ; it exhibits new pictures 

 to the imagination, and improves our relish for existence, 

 by widening the prospects of nature around us. Both, 

 however, are necessary to those who are desirous 

 of fully understanding this pleasing science. We have 

 therefore endeavoured to lay before our readers a 

 particular account of the most remarkable Quadrupeds, 

 Birds, Fishes, Reptiles, &c., to be found in the whole 

 range of animated nature ; and it is hoped, that the 

 familiar and plain style in which it is written, and 

 the superior order in which the Illustrations are 

 engraved, will render it better calculated to afford 

 amusement and instruction to the rising generation, 

 that any publication on the same subject which has 

 hitherto appeared. 



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