12<) 



The specimens ought to consist of the characteristic rocks of each 

 formation, arranged as nearly in the order which they observe in 

 nature as practicable ; also the minerals, ores, marls, peculiar soils, 

 organic remains, and other objects to which reference may be desi- 

 rable by those engaged in agriculture and the arts, or by those who 

 may study the mineral productions of the state, for less specific pur- 

 poses. 



As it is proposed to make a chemical investigation of the compo- 

 sition of these materials an essential feature of the plan, the analyses 

 given in the reports will be annexed to the specimens examined, 

 that thus every one consulting the cabinet may know at the same 

 time the external aspect, and the composition of a substance, capable 

 of useful applications. The analyses essential to this, not the least 

 useful part of the survey, from the arduous nature of the task, will 

 be confined to substances of more immediate interest and utility. 



17 



