HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE OF MICROSCOPY. 19 



their widest range. If we see not life itself, we see its 

 first beginnings, and the process of its development or 

 manifestation. If we see not Nature in her undress, we 

 trace the elementary warp and woof of her mystic drapery. 



In vegetable and animal physiology we see, by its 

 means, not only the elementary unit^the foundation-stone 

 of the building but also chambers and laboratories in 

 the animated temple, which we should never have sus- 

 pected tissues and structures not otherwise discoverable 

 not to speak of species innumerable which are invisible 

 to the naked eye. 



In medical science and jurisprudence the contributions 

 of microscopy have been so numerous that constant study 

 in this department is needed by the physician who would 

 excel or even keep pace with the progress of his profes- 

 sion. Microscopy may be truly called the guiding genius 

 of medical science. 



Even theology has its contribution from microscopy. 

 The teleological view of nature, which traces design, re- 

 ceives from it a multitude of illustrations. In this de- 

 partment the war between skeptical philosophy and theol- 

 ogy has waged most fiercely ; and if the difference between 

 living and non-living matter may be demonstrated by the 

 microscope, as argued by Dr. Beale and others, theology 

 sends forth a paean of victory from the battlements of this 

 science. 



The attempts made by early microscopists to determine 

 ultimate structure were of but little value from the im- 

 perfections of the instruments employed, the natural mis- 

 takes made in judging the novel appearances presented, 

 and the treatment to which preparations were subjected. 

 In late years the optical and mechanical improvements in 

 microscopes have removed one source of error, but other 

 sources still remain, rendering careful attention to details 

 and accurate judgment of phenomena quite essential. Care- 

 ful manipulation and minute dissection require a knowledge 



