knowledge of nature, may not be neglected. It is indeed true, that the number of its votaries, in England, are but few, in proportion to other states, where professorships and societies are established under the patronage and protection of the chief personages: yet if we consider it as affording an inconceivable fund of entertainment to its followers, it is rather to be wondered it is not more encouraged and propagated among us, than that we should find a few who have resolution enough to judge for themselves, and follow a study that is always new and always pleasing. The sneers and contempt thrown on it by men of narrow minds, who are impatient at hearing of persons bestowing their time in collecting a plant, an insect, or a stone, may perhaps contribute {xiii}not a little to prevent its progress; but whatever character may be stamped, either upon the study, or its professors, by such persons; it is certain, none but men fit to be placed in the first rank, have usually philosophy enough to prompt them to make enquiries into the works of nature. To some the task appears too arduous, to others too intricate, and to the generality too trifling; who are apt to look with contempt on every pursuit that does not coincide with their own opinions; nor must we, from vulgar minds, expect any conclusions in its favour: with these, a horse, a dog, or a cock, seem to bound the utmost limits of their gratifications. But men of refined tastes will judge otherways. They know that the inexhaustible store of entertainment nature affords in the contemplation of her works, is unbounded. It is not to be enjoyed all at once; the more we pursue, the more we shall possess, in proportion as we manifest a greater or less ardour. Nor is the serene placid enjoyment found therein, to be measured by the common gratifications of sense; as these often leave stings behind that worry the soul, and subvert the end they intended to promote; while the other offers to us its friendly aid, replete with happiness, health, and peace. And further, if the contemplation of the works of the Sovereign Architect, tends to promote that serious and attentive state of mind which disposes men to the pursuit of virtue, in order to be happy; and if the knowledge and practice of virtue are the means of supporting the mind through all the difficult passages and rugged paths of life; the naturalist bids as fair to be happy as any of the human race. His pleasures are not chequered by remorse, or damped by despair; his pursuits leave no horrors on the mind, or clash with the duty he owes his Maker, his neighbour, or his prince; his conscience suffers not for the indulgence of his mind, nor has repentance need to stalk behind him with an uplifted arm, for injustice committed on his fellow-creatures; on the contrary, it is for them ultimately his labours are pursued, for them he inquires into the various arcana of nature; every part of the earth is searched for their benefit, and its bowels are torn