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172

God. Those who have node the deepest r searches into the mysteries of creation, are the most sensible that numberless hidden springs lie beyond the reach of their comprehension; and, as science advances, this imperfection is more clearly perceptible. But, so far from being discouraged by this consideration, we should be stimulated to fresh exertions; cer tam, if we fail of our object, of increasing our knowledge, and exciting new motives for adrni ration and love. Vanity alone can induce a man to be satisfied with his own discoveries. It is said that Buffon caused the following pre sumptuous boast to be inscribed on his own statue: "A genius equal to the majesty of nature." But, says that eminent naturalist, Sir James Edward Smith, a single blade of grass is sufficient to confound his pretensions.

The wisdom and power displayed in the formation of the visible objects around us, cone inand our admiration ; whilst the benevolence so strikingly apparent in the provision for the enjoyment of the lowest order of animated beings, calls forth our gratitude, love, and

praise. The animalcule, that is too minute to

he discerned by the naked eye; the polyp us,
whosc nature approaches so nearly to that of
vegetables, that, when divided into several
pieces, each piece, like the cuttings of a plant,
becomes


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