1867.] Meteorological Department of the Board of Trade. 63 



it is not considered etiquette to patent an invention — why not we 

 are at a loss to understand — and Dr. Richardson has freely given 

 his discovery and the power to use his apparatus to the world. But 

 the medical practitioners of London know how to appreciate the un- 

 tiring zeal and earnest devotedness of a man who gives up wealth 

 and professional eclat in their service and in the service of mankind, 

 and they are manifesting their appreciation of Dr. Richardson's 

 lengthened labours by contributions to a testimonial which shall in 

 some small degree stand in place of the pecuniary results that 

 might have accrued to him had he been less punctilious and more 

 selfish; and in setting such an example to all who are likely to 

 derive benefit from the inventor's toil, those gentlemen confer alike 

 an honour upon Dr. Richardson and upon the noblest human 

 calling. 



We feel grateful, not only that we have been able to reap a 

 benefit from the new discovery, but that we are permitted to add 

 our humble tribute of praise to the indefatigable and disinterested 

 discoverer of what will prove to be one of the greatest blessings that 

 has ever been conferred by Providence upon the human race. 



VII. THE METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT OF THE 

 BOARD OF TRADE. 



As the reconstruction of the Meteorological Department is at present 

 engaging the attention of Government and scientific men, we venture 

 to make a few remarks on the subject ; which may at some future 

 time be extended as occasion requires. In these remarks, however, 

 we shall not enter into scientific details ; but would rather regard 

 the project from a business point of view. 



In the first place, we take it for granted that Government 

 ought to lend its support to the systematic prosecution of Meteoro- 

 logy ; for not only are Meteorological laws of immediate practical 

 importance, but in order to discover these laws, the united action of 

 many observers is required ; and this united action can best be 

 obtained by an influence and support such as Government can give. 



In the second place, it would appear that the following form the 

 most prominent practical benefits which may be anticipated from 

 the successful prosecution of Meteorology. 



(1) A determination of the ordinary climate, or Meteorological 

 condition of the various places in this country, and of the various 

 regions in the ocean. 



(2) A determination of the laws which regulate storms and all 

 similar abrupt affections of the Meteorology of a place or region. 



