PREFACE, XVil 
under the direction of a vigilant and well instructed astrono- 
mer—seconded by able and zealous assistants. 
Here also (in Yale College) successful observations have been 
made with good instruments, although no permanent building 
has been erected for an Observatory. 
We only give single examples by way of illustration, for the 
history of the progress of science in the United States, and of 
institutions for its promotion, during the present generation, 
would demand a volume. It is enough for our purpose that 
science is understood and valued, and the right methods of 
prosecuting it are known, and the time is at hand when its moral 
and intellectual uses will be as obvious as its physical applica- 
tions. Nor is it to be forgotten that we have awakened an 
European interest in our researches: general science has been 
illustrated by treasures of facts drawn from this country, and our 
discoveries are eagerly sought for and published abroad. 
While with our co-workers* in many parts of our broad land, 
we rejoice in this auspicious change, we are far from arrogating 
it to ourselves. Multiplied labors of many hands have produced 
the great result. In the place which we have occupied, we have 
persevered despite of all discouragements, and may, with our 
numerous coadjutors, claim some share in the honors of the day. 
We do not say that our work might not have been better done— 
but we may declare with truth that we have done all in our 
power, and it is something to have excited many others to effort 
and to have chronicled their deeds in our annals. Let those that 
follow us labor with the like zeal and perseverance, and the good 
cause will continue to advance and prosper. It is the cause of 
truth—science is only embodied and systematized truth, and in the 
beautiful conception of our noble Agassiz—‘‘ it tells the thoughis 
of God.” 
Although we are writing a preface to our first series already clo- 
sed, we may, without impropriety, say something of the Second 
Series now in successful progress. It began on the first of Jan- 
uary, 1846; instead of being quarterly like the First Series, it ap- 
* Especially our ancient compeer, The Journal of the Franklin Institute at Phil- 
adelphia. 
Cc ~ 
