180 INSTINCTS. 



that every one has exactly the kind of instinct which 

 is suitable for it, and we must be sensible how plainly 

 it shows an all disposing wisdom and goodness. It 

 is no explanation to say, the body of the spider af- 

 fords a liquid which can be drawn out into threads, 

 and is suitable for making a web, and, therefore, the 

 insect employs the materials with which it finds itself 

 supplied. For what leads it to know hoiv to employ 

 them, without instruction, as soon as it is born ? We 

 are therefore left to admire a striking display of 

 benificence and design in the distribution of instinct ; 

 that every animal is equally furnished with the par- 

 ticular species of sagacity which is suitable to its 

 wants. 



Instinct forms one of the most pleasing and in- 

 structive parts of natural history, and one of the most 

 delightful studies to every mind that loves to trace 

 the beneficent care of the Creator. It is not confin- 

 ed to dumb animals ; but we are to acknowledge the 

 goodness, which has given us instinct as well as rea- 

 son. It is by instinct infants manifest signs of fear 

 when they are approached with a countenance or 

 voice expressive of displeasure ; and are soothed 

 and pleased with gentle and tender expressions. We 

 have many instincts which the merciful Author of 

 our nature has given us, for a variety of occasions, 

 when the powers of reason are not unfolded, or cir- 

 cumstances would prevent them from answering our 

 purpose. Thus our preservation from danger often 

 requires, that some action should be performed so 

 suddenly that there is no time to think and determine. 



