INTRODUCTION. 



THE matters of which the earth is composed, with the 

 objects on its surface and in its waters, are for gene- 

 ral purposes classified under three heads or kingdoms — 

 viz., Mineral, Vegetable, and Animal. The first com- 

 prehends metals, stones, and all substances devoid of 

 organic structure, without the power of extension or 

 motion, being, if left untouched, the same to-day and for 

 ever. The second consists of plants, which possess an 

 organized structure, endowed with the vital power of ex- 

 tension and reproduction, but devoid of locomotion or 

 apparent sense of feeling pleasure or pain. The third 

 embraces all creatures endowed with life, and a greater 

 or less degree of perception, possessing the power of re- 

 production and locomotion, with the sense of feeling 

 pleasure and pain. The two latter successively reproduce 

 their like, each generation ultimately decaying. Such is 

 the law of nature. Creative power has been profuse in 

 placing on the earth numerous kinds of plants and ani- 

 mals, furnishing them with organisms suited to their 

 respective habits, all beautiful to behold ; but they are 

 often suddenly overtaken by convulsions of the earth, 

 the lofty forest tree and humble herb being overthrown 

 and buried beneath its surface, or hidden under its waters* 



B 



