i%2 
Hints for the Formation of 
' No . 16 . 
[The intention proposed in introducing the following papers of 
Mr. De Saussure, is, to point out to persons in different parts of the 
United States those various objects of inquiry which they may have 
it in their power to make, and which may subserve the interests 
of science ; at the same time a large mass of important information 
may be collected into a point, which may eventually prove benefi- 
cial to the country, by unfolding the resources w r e possess within 
ourselves. Many intelligent settlers of our western territory will 
no doubt be glad to have subjects of general inquiry pointed out to 
them ; whilst those more peculiarly local will readily occur from 
their own observations.] Ed. 
Agenda ; or a Collection of Observations and Researches 
the results of which may serve as the Foundation for a 
Theory of the Earth . By M. de Saussure.* 
When about to contemplate objects so complex as 
those that must be studied to found on observation the 
basis of a theory of the earth, it is indispensably neces- 
sary that we should previously form a regular plan ; 
prescribe for ourselves a certain order ; and minute down, 
if I may use the expression, the questions which we wish 
to propose to nature. As the geologist commonly studies 
and observes while travelling, the least distraction may 
deprive him, perhaps for ever, of an interesting object. 
Even without interruption the objects of his study are so 
various and so numerous, that some of them may easily 
escape his notice. An observation which appears im- 
portant, by engaging his whole attention, makes him of- 
ten forget others : sometimes he is discouraged by bad 
weather, or becomes absent through fatigue ; and the ne- 
glect produced by all these causes gives rise to deep re- 
gret, and even frequently obliges him to turn back; 
s Tilloch, vol. 3. p. 33. From the Journal des Mines, No. 20. 
