XIV 
PREFACE. 
the first steps as an observer, and is familiar with many of 
the technical terms, who can profit by a brief and concise 
manual. Beginners wish for a short and cheap book in 
which they may find a full explanation of the leading facts 
and principles of Geology. Their wants, I fear, somewhat 
resemble those of the old woman in l!^ew England, who ask¬ 
ed a bookseller to supply her with the cheapest Bible in 
the largest possible print.” 
But notwithstanding the difficulty of reconciling brevity 
with the copiousness of illustration demanded by those who 
have not yet mastered the rudiments of the science, I have 
endeavored to abridge the work in the manner above hinted 
at, so as to place it within the reach of many to whom it 
was before inaccessible. 
Charles Lyell. 
73 Harley Street, London, 
December^ 1870 . 
