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ILLUSTRATIONS OF 
as they are devoted to engaging studies or idle 
pleasures. 
It is quite true that the name of Philosopher is 
given more especially to him who dedicates a life 
of leisure to the cultivation of his mind, and to the 
extension of the boundaries of human learning. But 
many great names can be cited of men who in the 
midst of the active and busy pursuits of life have 
found time to devote their best energies to the culti- 
vation of learning. The greatest luminary of modern 
times. Lord Bacon, was of this number ; and it has 
been w^ell said, " there can be no doubt that the assi- 
duous devotion of the bulk of our time to the vocation 
which our condition requires is an important duty, 
and indicates the possession of practical wisdom. 
This, however, does by no means hinder us from em- 
ploying the rest of our time, beside what nature requires 
for meals and rest, to the study of science ; and he 
who, in whatever situation his lot may be cast, works 
his day's work, and improves his mind in the evening, 
as well as he who, placed above such necessity, prefers 
the refined and elevating pleasures of knowledge to 
the low gratification of the senses, richly deserves the 
name of a true philosopher." — 
" With thee, serene Philosophy, with thee, 
And thy bright garland, let me crown my song ; 
Effusive source of evidence, and truth : 
A lustre shedding o'er the ennobled mind. 
Stronger than summer noon ; and pure as that 
Whose mild vibrations soothe the parted soul. 
New to the dawning of celestial day." 
Already do I feel that my discourse has encroached 
