SCIENCE IN THE PROVINCES. 
363 
consequently unable to record the proceedings ; but Liverpool is not the 
only town that brings her offerings to the altar of science, and we are now 
able to notice a similar display, which was recently made in the smaller 
but not less important town of Northampton. 
For this exhibition the inhabitants were indebted to the chemistry and 
natural history classes of the Mechanics’ Institution, and it was a great 
success in everything, except its pecuniary results. It contained collec- 
tions of objects of natural history ; of archaeological interest ; and illus- 
trative of scientific theories and various manufactures. These were 
numerous and well arranged, each object being labelled with a simple 
description of its nature and uses ; and gentlemen well versed in the 
various branches of science were in attendance to give any explanations 
that might be required. 
The industrial occupations and staple trades of the town and neighbour- 
hood were well represented. Samples of wool and specimens of cloth in 
different stages of manufacture were exhibited by Messrs. P. P. Playne 
and Co. ; of needles in their different stages, by Messrs. Millward and Sons, 
Redditch ; of cocoa, by Messrs. Cadbury and Co., Birmingham ; the 
different stages of the silk manufacture were shown by Mr. Scott ; 
chemical preparations by Mr. Harris, of Northampton. 
The local tradespeople sent philosophical instruments, pianos, tobacco, 
machinery, &c. ; a printing machine was at work striking off copies of a 
commemorative poem, of which more hereafter; and as in the Liverpool 
exhibition, the gentlemen of the neighbourhood contributed numerous 
collections of objects in zoology, archaeology, &c. In the course of the 
evening a series of dissolving views were exhibited, and, lastly, what to a 
stranger would have been by far the most interesting feature in the 
exhibition, a potter and a papermaker were at work at intervals in the 
same room. 
As is usual in such undertakings, although a great many persons con- 
tribute materials for the show, there is always some one who “ does ” 
everything. The factotum of the exhibition was Mr. Harris, of Gold- 
street, to whom the greatest credit is due for the manner in which this 
exhibition was conducted. 
Our informant says nothing concerning the musical strains which 
usually enliven these festivals, nor are we informed whether the fair ladies 
of Northampton followed the example of those at Liverpool, and spent 
weeks beforehand in preparing decorations to grace the exhibition ; but 
one at least, whose nom de plume was “ Laura,” won laurels by the com- 
position of some beautiful verses, which were printed and sold in the 
building, the proceeds going towards the expenses of the exhibition. 
After referring to the events of the past year, and paying a graceful 
tribute to the memory of one whom the fair poetess styles “ Sage, Artist, 
and Prince,” she thus characterises the aim of those who have promoted 
the festival : — 
Do y r e ask for our aim ? — Towards the Temple of truth 
With steady resolve and high purpose we tend — 
Her pilgrims are we ! Nor with vanishing Youth, 
Nor with fugitive years, must our pilgrimage end. 
