%, 
On the Museum of Practical Geology of Great Britain. 235 
may arise, if our body should, by a change of relations, be gov- 
he the diffusion of scientific knowledge among its masses. 
ey may, with the most sincere and earnest intention, not only 
fail to advance, but even exercise a retarding influence on suc 
iffusion, and may object to a course of study w ich, as now 
pursued, is irrespective of religious teaching. Experience has 
shown in how sickly a manner practical science is allowed to 
-Taise its head under the direction of those persons whose. pur- 
Suits are alien to it; whilst in every land, where it has had due 
Support, the greatest benefits have resulted. — 
laced as the geological survey and its affiliated branches now 
are, in subordination to the Board of Trade, they are continually 
aiding in the development of an amount of mineral wealth far 
exceeding that of any other country, and in this wholesome and 
Important action, the movements of our body are not only un- 
fettered, but are likely to receive all that encouragement which 
Seems alone to be wanted to enable this establishment to be emi- 
nently useful in instructing that class of persons who will mate- 
ate augment the productive industry and trade of Great 
itain, 
* See Mr. J. Kenyon Blackwell’s Paper on the Present position of the Iron Tndus- 
uy of Great Britain, with reference to that of other Countries, read at the Society 
Arts, Wednesday 9, January 1856, p. 121 of the Journal. 
