that both young and old should study the works of Paley and Butler. I 
have been told that in the universities the works of my ancestor, commonly 
called “the characteristic Earl,” are now much more studied than the works 
of Paley and Butler. I am sorry to hear it, for a greater “ prig ” in literature 
I do not believe to have existed. (Laughter.) I have attempted to read 
his works very frequently : I have dipped into them one after another ; 
but have never had sufficient strength of will and courage to go through 
with them ; they are so full of conceit and pretentiousness. At the time 
at which he lived a certain ornate style prevailed, and I believe that his 
acceptance was owing a good deal to the fact that it was unusual then for 
men of his rank to deal in such matters. But I must say that in my 
opinion, if the man who could lay down as a broad proposition that ridicule 
is the test of truth — which is the proposition laid down in his works— can be 
called a true and trustworthy philosopher, I am bound to say that I view 
with dismay those intellects and hearts that have taken to the study of the 
works of my ancestor, and rejected those of Paley and Butler. But as 
brevity is the order of the night, I will not further detain you. I should 
get out of my depth if I began to talk on scientific matters. I can only say 
that I have a positive reverence for science ; and if I had not been called 
away to other things, I sliould have given myself to the study of science, 
because whenever I hear a scientific discussion I lick my lips with enjoy- 
ment. But I made my choice in another direction, and consequently I feel 
that I am hardly fit to hold the post I now fill ; but to your consideration 
and kindness— and probably to some respect for me, as having been at the 
outset one of the very few who started this Institute— is owing the fact that 
I now continue to retain my position as your President. (Cheers.) 
[The members, associates, and their friends then adjourned to the 
Museum, where refreshments were served.] 
