142 
MEMOIR OF 
by so much as they might indulge it, diminish 
their power of pursuing hereafter the study of any 
department of nature with success. 
Let them, therefore, postpone the gratification 
of their wishes as ever they would avoid being 
numbered with that large class of individuals 
who, by having- had their attention too soon 
directed to such branches of knowledge, have 
ultimately attained scarcely a mediocrity in an}'. 
It may also be permitted to remark on the 
collateral advantages of a moral and religious 
nature which result to the individual himself, 
who, with the requisite education, pursues 
Natural History either as his chief occupation, or 
for purposes of mere amusement or relaxation. 
The attention of the naturalist is directed to the 
immediate works of Deity, which are the realized 
perceptions of whatever seems beautiful and wise 
to His infinite intelligence. These pursuits also 
lead him to the continual observation of the 
specimens of design apparent in the works of 
nature, and which are the primary proofs of the 
existence and attributes of God.* 
* The utility of Natural History in this respect has been 
so extensive, that owing to the advancement it has made 
within comparatively a short space of time, such a phenome- 
non as an avowed speculative atheist which not unfrequently 
presented itself to our forefathers, is now almost unknown. 
The reader acquainted with Haley's Natural Theology 
will he aw r are to what excellent effect the different de- 
partments of physical science are there applied. The 
service it has rendered to religion is one of the highest 
recommendations of Natural History, and which, presented 
