MEMOIR OF RAY. 
69 
rests were beginning to lose their influence in the 
near anticipation of the most glorious manifestations 
of the Creator. 
His varied and useful labours have justly caused 
him to be regarded as the father of natural history 
in this country ; and his character is in every re- 
spect such as we should wish to belong to the indi- 
vidual enjoying that high distinction. His claims 
to the regard of posterity are not more founded 
on his intellectual capacity than on his moral ex- 
cellence. He maintained a steady and uncompro- 
mising adherence to his principles, at a time when 
vacillation and change were so common as almost 
to escape unnoticed and uncensured. From some 
conscientious scruples, which he shared in common 
with many of the wisest and most pious men of his 
time, he did not hesitate to sacrifice his views of 
preferment in the church, although his talents and 
learning, joined to the powerful influence of his nu- 
merous friends, might have justified him in aspiring 
to a considerable station. The benevolence of his 
disposition continually appears in the generosity of 
his praise, the tenderness of his censure, and solici- 
tude to promote the welfare of others. His modesty 
and self-abasement were so great that they transpire 
insensibly on all occasions ; and his affectionate and 
grateful feelings led him, as has been remarked, to 
fulfil the sacred duties of friendship even to his own 
prejudice, and to adorn the bust of his friend with 
wreaths which he himself might justly have assumed. 
