PREFACE. IX 



taken place on its surface ; on the manner in which 

 the functions of all creatures are performed, and the 

 principal modifications observed in their structure, 

 according to the kind of life for which they have 

 been destined. Such information once acquired, 

 would not be soon forgotten ; and such information 

 must be specially sought by all who would become 

 naturalists ; it is enough, however, for those whose 

 occupations are not closely connected with these 

 sciences. 



Such are the opinions of M. Edwards, the emi- 

 nent French naturalist. I am sure the propagation 

 of these opinions in our country will advance its 

 interests. To the science of agriculture, natural 

 history, properly taught, is of great importance, 

 because it teaches us the structure of animals, the 

 mode of their existence, and what is essential to 

 their life. This knowledge enables us to treat their 

 diseases with a better prospect of success, and to 

 destroy those animals which are injurious to our 

 interests. Of the value of geology in teaching us 

 the nature of the earth's surface, there is not less 

 doubt. 



It ought not to be urged against the study of 

 natural history, that it requires us to become familiar 

 with hard words. Every branch of human know- 

 ledge every mechanic art, has its respective tech- 

 nicalities. Systematic names are only difficult to 



