126 THE VULTURE. 



codlles' eggs, are benefits of the greatest consequence 

 to those who inhabit such climates. 



A knowledge of these benefits, in an animal so ob- 

 noxious in appearance and habits, ought to teach us to 

 be very careful how we pronounce any of the works 

 of creation to be useless, because we do not see the 

 design for which they were intended. For we may 

 be assured, that it is only our own ignorance, and 

 want of reflection, that prevent us from perceiving that 

 the Creator has made nothing except what is useful, 

 in one way or another. 



The Vulture is mentioned in Scripture as an unclean 

 bird, and one that is forbidden for food. It is also 

 mentioned in Job, Chapter 38, verse 7. " There is a 

 path which no fowl knoweth, and which the Vulture's 

 eye hath not seen." 



This passage, says Miss Hewlet, alludes to the art 

 and diligence of men in digging subterraneous ways 

 through caverns and mines, in order to acquire the 

 riches that are hid in the bosom of the earth. But 

 though man is endowed w r ith wisdom far beyond the 

 beasts of the field, and the fowls of heaven, man has 

 never, by his own unaided efforts, found the way to 

 God and happiness, but is groping in the dark, and 

 spending his strength upon that which can neither 

 satisfy nor endure. It is not until a light from heaven 

 reveals the path of life, and divine grace enables him 

 to discern and pursue it, that man can attain the " fear 

 of the Lord, which is true wisdom." 



