IV 
INTRODUCTION 
even their most minute parts, we see clearly a 
necessary dependance that each has upon the 
other ; and if we attend to the vast concurrence 
of causes that join in producing the several ope- 
rations of nature, we shall be induced to believe 
further, that the whole world is one connected train 
of causes and effects,, in which all the parts., either 
nearly or remotely, have a necessary dependance on 
each other. We shall find nothing insulated, no- 
thing dependant only on itself. Each part lends a 
certain support to the others, and takes in return its 
share of aid from them 0 
The empire of nature has, by the general as- 
sent of mankind, been divided into three essen- 
tial kingdoms ; the first consisting of minerals, 
the second of vegetables, and the third of animals. 
The mineral kingdom, which consists of substances 
destitute of the organs necessary to life or motion, 
occupies in rude masses the interior parts of the 
earth. It is formed from the accidental aggrega- 
tion of particles, which, under certain circum- 
stances, take a constant and regular figure, hut 
which are more frequently found without any 
definite conformation. The vegetable kingdom 
clothes the surface of the earth with verdure. It 
consists of organized bodies destitute of the power 
of locomotion, or changing place at will. These 
imbibe nutriment through their roots, respire air 
by their leaves, and continue their various kinds 
by means of seeds dispersed within proper limits* 
