VI PREFACE. 



wisdom which man alone is allowed to contemplate. 

 Philosophers, both of antient and modern times, have 

 endeavoured to show, that to study Nature is the most 

 effectual way to produce in our minds a veneration 

 for the omnipotent Creator. The more we investigate 

 the wonders of his bounty, the more convinced we 

 shall feel that it is our duty to explore and examine 

 the treasures which are at present dormant. 



To the numerous friends who have honoured me 

 with patronage and assistance in the present work I 

 beg leave to offer my most grateful thanks ; and can 

 only assure them that my abilities shall be most 

 strenuously exerted to render the future volumes of it 

 deserving the encouragement that has been given to 

 the present one. 



With regard to the execution, the best criterion is, 

 that the most perfect judges have thought it worthy 

 of encouragement, and the enlightened assistance it 

 has received will be readily discerned by the true 

 critic. 



