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ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. 
of every compound in which the same elements were united 
in the same proportions, and this fact formed the basis of 
Dalton's theory, not to say the basis of the science itself. 
The discovery of this law puts the whole material world 
within the grasp of the chemist, and enables him to describe 
the structure and composition of a whole aggregate, forming, 
perhaps, a mountain chain, from the bare examination of 
minute and inconsiderable fragments. Aided by a knowledge of 
the affinities which one element has for all others, no com- 
position is so complex as to bid defiance to his powers to 
separate and discover its integral components; and when 
his task is completed, he is satisfied that he possesses a 
knowledge of the composition of that body, wherever 
existing, in whatever form, or under whatever latitude it may 
be found; whether beneath the frozen skies of the artic circle, 
or fanned by the orange-groves of tropical climes. 
These facts are referred to, to show, that in the investiga- 
tion and discovery of the materials of which the surface of 
the earth is composed, no ordinary degree of intellect is re- 
quired deliberately to weigh, and compare, causes and efiects, 
phenomena and their attendant circumstances; and that no 
mind, however superior in its endowments, can conceive its 
powers misused or misapplied, when devoted to such a cause 
as the pursuits of chemistry are thus shown to be. 
It is my purpose now to recal your attention from this stu- 
pendous fabric, an appellation to which I consider the science 
honestly entitled; and from the regard of its application to the 
development of the structure of immense masses, to direct 
you to some of its humbler duties, wherein its utility is no 
less apparent, nor less conducive to the happiness and health 
of mankind. The science of Pharmacy, which may be con- 
sidered as embraced in this sphere of its operations, is one to 
which too little attention has hitherto been paid. Exceedingly 
humble and unpretending in its details, its operations are as 
closely identified with the well being of society, as those of 
any other profession ; but the few splendors attendant on its 
successful cultivation, have as yet proved not sufficiently 
