50 MEMORIAL OF JOSEPH HENRY. 



those abstruse and occult problems which baffle the efforts of 

 scientists, hoping thus perchance to add to the stores of human 

 knowledge and the happiness of human life. Surely, mankind are 

 not mere followers of fame nor blind worshipers of ISIammon, but 

 are prompt to recognize true greatness wherever found. 



When James Smithson's munificent donation to the cause of 

 knowledge was heralded to the world, scientists and literati differed 

 widely in their views of the proper method of carrying into effect 

 the wishes of the donor, and of utilizing the bequest. Many wore 

 the suggestions and varied the projects which were successively pro- 

 posed, considered, and rejected. Steadily adhering to his own far- 

 seeing convictions, Professor Henry finally secured such legislation 

 as was necessary to consummate with literal exactitude the wishes of 

 the generous donor, and from that hour the Smithsonian Institu- 

 tion has been dedicated to its great work, "the increase and diffu- 

 sion of knowledge among men." 



Himself arranging all the details whereby these results could be 

 most surely attained, the work of original investigation has under 

 his guidance gone steadily forward, until to-day the name and fame 

 of the Smithsonian Institution and its late secretary are known and 

 appreciated among the nations of the earth, wherever knowledge 

 has found a votary or science an abiding place. The system is 

 unique, for neither in the Old World nor the New is its counter- 

 part to be found, and I may safely say that its achievements are 

 as widely known and as highly valued in other continents as in 

 this. Time will not suffice to enumerate the varied and useful 

 results which have been thus attained ; but we know, and the world 

 knows, that to the sagacity, industry, and administrative ability of 

 Joseph Henry is alone due the credit of this great success. 

 Unwilling to lessen the interest or mar the beauty of the biograph- 

 ical sketch to Avhich you will soon listen, the preparation of which 

 has been delegated to the able hands of one who knew him long 



