286 BULLETIN OF THE 



and writer — first of all the increase of knowledge by the promo- 

 tion of original research, — the addition of new truths to the 

 existing stock of knowledge, and secondly — its widest possible 

 diffusion among mankind.* 



These wise and far-reaching views exerted a marked influence; 

 and though hardly then in accord with the opinion of the majority, 

 yet led to his election December od, 1846, as the "Secretary" 

 and practical Director of the infant institution. A second time 

 was Henry called upon to sever dearly prized associations, — the 

 prosperous and congenial pursuits of fourteen years within the 

 classic halls of Princeton. One motive turned the wavering 

 scale. Here was a rare occasion offered by the enlightened pro- 

 vision of James Smithson, to secure for abstract science and un- 

 promising original research, a much needed encouragement and 

 support; and an obligation upon the scientific few to resist and 

 if possible prevent the perversion of the trust to the merely- 

 popular uses of the short-sighted many. That years would be 

 required for shaping the character and conduct of the institution 

 as he desired, was certain ; — that this could not be effected 

 without much opposition and various obstacles, he very clearly 

 foresaw. That during these years of active supervision and 

 direction, he must abandon all hope of personal opportunity for 

 original research, he as freely accepted in the expressive remark 

 made to a trusted friend in consultation on the occasion : "If I 

 go, I shall probably exchange permanent fame for transient 

 reputation." 



With the assurance of the Trustees of the College of New 

 Jersey, that should he fail to realize his programme, or should 

 be satisfactorily accomplish his apostolic purpose, his chair 

 should always be at his command, with a hearty welcome back, 

 Henry, neither spurred by over-confidence, nor depressed with 

 undue timidity, though lilled with anxious solicitude for the 

 future, accepted the appointment tendered to him. He removed 

 with his family to Washington, and at once commenced his ad- 

 ministration of the duties assigned to him bv the Regents of the 

 Institution. 



Summoned thus to the occupancy of a new and untried field, 

 and to the discharge of essentially executive functions, he from 

 the first displayed a clearness and promptness of judgment, a 

 singleness and steadiness of aim, a firmness and consistency of 

 decision, combined with a practical sagacity and moderation in 

 adapting his course to the exigencies of adverse conditions, which 

 stamped him as a most able and successful administrator. With- 

 out concealment and without diplomacy, his distinctly avowed 

 principle of action was steadily and patiently pursued. With. 



* " Programme of Organization." Smithsonian Report for 1847. 



60 



