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are exactly those which were best suited to the functions of the being. 

 Hence we not only show intelligence contriving means adapted to 

 an end, but at successive times and periods contriving a change of 

 mechanism adapted to a change in external conditions. If this be not 

 the operation of a prospective and active intelligence, where are we 

 to look for it ? 



Our science is then connected with the loftiest of moral specula- 

 tions ; and I know no topic more fitting to the last sentiments 1 

 wish to utter from this Chair. 



There is one way, and one way only, in which the higher intellec- 

 tual powers may be cramped by the pursuit of natural truth, and that 

 is by a too exclusive devotion to it. In the pursuit of any subject, 

 however lofty, a man may become narrow-minded, and in a condition 

 little better than that of moral servitude : but on this score we have 

 not much to fear. Every department of science offers its spoils for 

 our decoration ; we are carried into regions where we contemplate 

 the most glorious workmanship of Nature, and where the dullest ima- 

 gination becomes excited 5 we are forced to travel through distant 

 lands, and become familiar with the complexions, and the feelings, 

 and the characters of mankind under every form of social life ; and in 

 doing this, if we be not most indocile learners, we must bear away 

 lessons of kindness, and forbearance, and freedom of thought, along 

 with the appropriate knowledge of our own vocation ; and all this 

 we can carry with us into the business of life. These, Gentlemen, 

 are the high qualities which ought to form the ornament of this So- 

 ciety ; and I am certain that I have seen their constant exercise in 

 the intercourse and the discussions of this room, where mutual good- 

 will, frankness, and the love of truth, are the only dominant senti- 

 ments. 



My own connexion with this Society during the two years I have 

 had the honour to preside over its councils, has been to me a source 

 of continued and heartfelt pleasure : and it would be with pain inde- 

 scribable that I should now quit this Chair and bid you farewell, did 

 I not think that I should very often meet the same friends, and partake 

 in the same discussions. 



Every man, whatever be his station, has a small circle of duties 

 which are paramount to all others : but after these are performed, 

 such powers as are given me shall ever be willingly devoted to your 

 service. I do not mean this for empty boasting ; that language would 

 ill become me at any time, and least of all when I am leaving this 

 Chair and descending into your ranks. Mine has been indeed but an 

 interrupted service j but I resign it to one of whose powers you have 

 had long experience, who can give them to you undivided, and whose 

 hands are in no respect less ready than my own. 



