THE SYNTHETICAL METHOD. 489 



written, and to take upon trust more falsehood than truth; 

 but let us ourselves examine things as we have opportu- 

 nity, and converse with nature as well as books. Let us 

 endeavour to promote and increase this knowledge, and 

 make new discoveries, not so much distrusting our own 

 parts, or despairing of our own abilities, as to think that 

 our industry can add nothing to the invention of our ances- 

 tors, or correct any of their mistakes. Let us not think 

 that the bounds of science are fixed like Hercules's pillars, 

 and inscribed with a ne plus ultra ; let us not think we 

 have done when we have learned what they have delivered 

 to us. The treasures of nature are inexhaustible; here is 

 employment enough for the vastest parts, the most inde- 

 fatigable industries, the happiest opportunities, the most 

 prolix and undisturbed vacancies." 



