INTRODUCTION. 



OF all departments of Science, there is perhaps no single one 

 capable of exercising such an advantageous influence on the mind 

 of its cultivator, as Natural History. Every kind of knowledge 

 has in it something that is valuable ; for, even if it be of no direct 

 utility in the ordinary concerns of the world, the acquirement of 

 it is a useful exercise to the mental faculties, and the possession 

 of it may operate in a most beneficial manner on the habitual 

 feelings, and give a corresponding direction to the whole course 

 of life. 



It is desirable to cherish correct views of the benefits of different 

 kinds of knowledge, that those may choose most advantageously 

 for themselves whom the necessary business of life debars from the 

 extended pursuit of it ; and without undervaluing other branches 

 of Science, it may be safely affirmed that Natural History is 

 capable of affording more to interest and instruct, more to refresh 

 and relax the well-disposed mind, on a very slight acquaintance 

 with it, than any other pursuit. Not a step can the learner ad- 

 vance in it, but he meets with wonders previously unsuspected; 

 not a height does he gain, from which his prospect is clearer and 

 more extensive, but his notion of these wonders acquires a yet 

 more astonishing vastness. The more he knows, the more he 

 desires to know ; and the further he advances, the more does he 

 perceive how much delight is yet in store for him. 



The beneficent Creator of all has not only ordained, that every 

 part of His works should be good should be adapted to answer 

 its designed end, and should contribute in the highest degree of 



