vi PREFACE. 



which come from the study and care of creatures inferior 

 to ourselves are elements essential to the highest character. 

 It will be seen that the general subjects follow each 

 other in an ascending series, conforming in the main to 

 scientific treatment. In each branch the topics relating to 

 home life are first presented, to the end that instruction 

 may be based upon experience, that greater interest may 

 be excited, and that the pupils may be led to make careful 

 and accurate observations — a most necessary step in true 

 mental development. These details of life about home are 

 followed by a series of sketches, which, while exciting pres- 

 ent interest, have a tendency to produce a hunger that 

 only large reading and reflection will satisfy. 



Princeton, N. J., March 3, 18S3. 



