656 SELECTIONS FROM ADDRESSES. 



strengthens the bonds of affection between ourselves in this 

 imperfect condition. 



And shall not this interesting study commend itself to the 

 young farmer, impatient to penetrate the mysteries around 

 him, or find acceptance in the maiden's heart, who seeks ex- 

 tended opportunities of observation, and finds little pleasure 

 in the dull routine of daily household work ? 



Huber, one of the greatest of French naturalists, devoted 

 eight years to the study of bees, and thought the time thus 

 expended was promoting the happiness and welfare of man. 

 The world has sanctioned that judgment by ten thousand 

 reprints of his researches. Time will not permit me to enter 

 into any of the interesting details of their history here. But, 

 lord of creation as man assumes to be, shall he contemn the 

 lowly life around him and trample its mysterious organization 

 into the dust, or study its influences and bearings on his own 

 condition, and thus approach his Creator as a knowledge of 

 his works increases ? 



There is another name inscribed high on the roll of honor, 

 among the useful and distinguished of our country — that of 

 Audubon. With a love of the natural and beautiful that no 

 hardship could daunt, he devoted a life to the description of 

 birds ; passing consecutive weeks in the forest, or on the moun- 

 tain or plain, or by the sea-shore, watching their habits. Lean- 

 ing against some friendly tree, with his portfolio on his lap, he 

 would patiently sit through a long summer day, in writing an 

 exact description of some bird, learning its peculiar song, and 

 transferring its varied plumage to his note-book. His publish- 

 ed works now command the admiration of the world ; and his 

 largest volume sells at $800. The intensity of his love of this 

 pursuit was never dimmed by any discouragement ; it led 

 him into remote forests away from human habitations and the 

 human face and voice, for weeks in succession, where the 

 earth was his couch, and his rifle the means of obtaining sub- 

 sistence. His labors now give instruction and delight to 

 millions, and will inspire millions more with a love for this 

 useful and beautiful part of creation — the birds. 



If this study occupied the life of an individual distinguished 

 alike for intelligence, and a desire to promote the welfare of 

 his race, shall not the farmer find inducements to enter into its 



