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1 
PREFACE. 
The study of Natural History affords perhaps as much 
real information and entertainment to man, as are found 
to result from any pursuit in which the human mind 
can be employed. The knowledge of the animate and 
inanimate part of the creation, including their distinct 
natures, properties, and effects, and ultimately leading 
to adore that Omnipotent Being who hath called them 
into existence, has been thought worthy of the most 
serious attention by the greatest and wisest men in all 
ages, and nations. v 
The present Era, however, is universally acknow- 
ledged to be the moment in which the greatest progress 
has been made in this instructive and engaging study. 
For these superior advantages, we are chiefly indebted 
