THE PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. 103 



information and instruction, than with any expectation of being 

 able to contribute to the general stock of knowledge themselves : 

 we should, nevertheless, remember that it is not only to those 

 amongst us whose scientific attainments and extensive learning pre- 

 eminently fit them for the task of sustaining the character of the 

 Society, and carrying out its objects, that we look for assistance 

 and support. There are many subjects of enquiry and observation 

 which come within the reach of every intelligent person. Subjects 

 connected with the peculiarities of our climate and soil, and the geo- 

 logy and natural history of the country, upon all of which much 

 valuable information might be collected at the cost of a comparatively 

 small expenditure of time and trouble on the part of individual ob- 

 servers, while many important facts might be thus elicited which 

 might form the basis for future enquiry and research, on the part of 

 those whose talents and acquirements more peculiarly fit them for 

 the task. 



Upon the individual exertions then of the members of the Insti- 

 tute, and their hearty co-operation in the furtherance of its objects, 

 must we depend for that degree of life and vigor in this Association 

 which alone can enable it to take rank worthily among the scientific 

 societies of the world. 



The inducements to the prosecution of scientific enquiries are as 

 great here as in any other part of the world — indeed it may be said 

 that there are peculiar reasons why those who desire to promote the 

 best interests of our country, should exert themselves in the prose- 

 cution of such studies. 



Canada has lately made herself most favorably known through her 

 products and manufactures, at the great exhibitions of 1851 and 

 1855. 



Now, I think it will be readily admitted that the results of these 

 exhibitions have clearly proved that, in the present advanced state of 

 civilization, " a competition in industry must be a competition of intel- 

 lect," and that the material greatness and prosperity of individual 

 countries must largely depend upon their advancement in science. 



Possessing, as we undoubtedly do, many advantages over other 

 countries, iu the fertility of our soil, and the extent and excellence 

 of our mineral productions, still, if we neglect or overlook the cul- 

 tivation and promotion of those scientific enquiries which tend to the 

 effective application of increased power, be it in agriculture or man- 

 ufactures, both with regard to the economy of labor and of time— 



