132 HOW NATURE STUDY SHOULD BE TAUGHT 



not as an argument or enticement, but as an ab- 

 surdity. Equally absurd is your relinquishing to 

 the scientists all use of the microscope. Just about 

 as absurd as it would be to let the scientific or- 

 nithologist in the fields have the sole right to use 

 opera-glasses. You recognize their value to him 

 in their scientific use, but you are not willing that 

 he should monopolize them. You rightly continue 

 their use for pleasurable seeing. The scientist 

 derives both pleasure and scientific knowledge 

 from their employment. Even if you do not care 

 for the science, continue their use for the pleasure. 

 As soon abandon the gratification of unaided see- 

 ing, as to forego the pleasure of such magnificent 

 pictures as are obtained by the use of the micro- 

 scope. 



You notice the attractive foliage and graceful 

 outlines of the tree, and your heart is warmed by 

 the sight ; it dilates in appreciation of the beauty, 

 and, if you rightly consider the subject, your ex- 

 perience increases your ability to observe better 

 at the next trial. As was previously stated, let 

 there be but some defect in the eyesight, and then 

 how we strive to remedy it. The clouds, the 

 trees, the green grass, the variegated flowers, the 

 birds, familiar forms and faces, are all sealed to 



