X INTRODUCTION. 



men, liberal like himself. Soon after I was elected a Member 

 of the Linnajan and Zoological Societies. 



About this time, the Prince of Musignano, so well known 

 for his successful cultivation of Natural History, arrived in Lon- 

 don. He found me out through the medium of the learned geo- 

 logist Featherstonhaugh, and one evening I had the plea- 

 sure of receiving a visit from him, accompanied by that gentle- 

 man, JVlr Vigors, and some other persons. I felt happy in 

 having once more by my side my first ornithological adviser, and 

 that amiable and highly talented friend, with the accomplished 

 geologist, remained with me until a late hour. Their departure 

 affected me with grief, and since that period I have not seen the 

 Prince. For several months I occupied myself with painting in 

 oil, and attending to the progress of my plates. I now became 

 acquainted with that eminent and amiable painter, Sir Thomas 

 Lawrence, through a kindred spirit, Thomas Sully of Phi- 

 ladelphia ; from both of whom, at different periods, I have re- 

 ceived advice with reference to their enchanting art. One morn- 

 ing I had the good fortune to receive a visit from Mr Swain- 

 son, whose skill as a naturalist every one knows, and who has 

 ever since been my substantial friend. M. Temminck also called, 

 as did other scientific individuals, among whom was my ever- 

 valued friend Robert Bakewell, whose investigations have 

 tended so much to advance the progress of geology ; and as my 

 acquaintance increased I gradually acquired happiness. Having 

 visited those renowned seats of learning, Cambridge and Oxford, 

 I became acquainted at the former with the Vice-Chancellor Mr 

 Davie, Professors Sedgwick, Whewell, and Henslow, 

 the Right Honourable Went worth Fitzwilliam, John 



