

INTRODUCTION. 



The personal interests of man are much mixed 

 up with, and dependant on the animal creation 

 with which he is surrounded. And beside those 

 which contribute to our wealth or conveniency, 

 there are others of scarcely less interest, that 

 attend the motions of the peasant, and meet the 

 philosopher in his most retired walks; so that as 

 all ranks of men are compelled to notice them, 

 all are in some degree acquainted with their habits 

 and history. 



But the contemplative mind seeks after the 

 possession of more knowledge than can be ob- 

 tained under ordinary opportunities, whilst the 

 delight increases with the acquisition : the ivorks 

 of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that 

 have pleasure therein ; and as there is none so 

 pleasing, so there is no amusement so innocent 

 as the study of Natural History. 



But it is not only, nor even chiefly, as an 

 amusement, that this subject claims our attention. 

 The differences that exist in the forms of the 

 various orders of animal beings — so well titled 

 to their various modes of life, direct us to the 

 contemplation of the wisdom that formed them, 

 and of the goodness which has placed within 

 their reach the objects suited to their organs 

 and happiness. 



