12 ON THE STUDY OF 



those various combinations which are requisite 

 to preserve and perpetuate the existing order of 

 things. 



All these indeed are subjects well calculated 

 to excite our wonder, to awaken our curiosity, 

 and to inspire in our minds the most elevated 

 sentiments of devotion towards the Author by 

 whom they were created. Yet much as may be 

 their due, and we cannot dwell too long upon 

 their beauties, there is yet one subject to be 

 treated, which, from the comprehensiveness of its 

 nature, from the contrivance it displays, and 

 from the usefulness of its tendency, far exceeds 

 any we have yet noticed. We allude to the 

 animal creation. 



Had our first view of the universe been confined 

 to the objects previously noticed, we should have 

 indeed had a vast field for contemplation. But 

 when the novelty which it excited had begun to 

 subside, and reflection had superseded our cu- 

 riosity, though admitting the grandeur of the 

 design, we should at once have discovered a 

 deficiency, that would have rendered us doubtful 

 of the purpose; and while we admired the pic- 

 ture, we might have been led to question the 

 judgment of the artist. 



But when we see this unparelleled display of 

 beauty, order, and contrivance, enlivened and 

 adorned by an endless variety of other substances, 

 possessing life and locomotion, arid great capa- 



