But there is certainly nothing
in the study of physical science to interfere with genial hilarity;
though, indeed, some solemn persons have been wont to reprove the
members of the British Association, and specially that Red Lion Club,
where all the philosophers are expected to lash their tails and roar,
of being somewhat too fond of mere and sheer fun, after the abstruse
papers of the day are read and discussed. And as for harmless
amusement, and still more for the free exercise of the fancy and the
imagination, I know few studies to compare with Natural History; with
the search for the most beautiful and curious productions of Nature
amid her loveliest scenery, and in her freshest atmosphere. I have
known again and again working men who in the midst of smoky cities
have kept their bodies, their minds, and their hearts healthy and
pure by going out into the country at odd hours, and making
collections of fossils, plants, insects, birds, or some other objects
of natural history; and I doubt not that such will be the case with
some of my readers.
Another argument, and a very strong one, in favour of studying some
branch of Natural Science just now is this--that without it you can
hardly keep pace with the thought of the world around you.
Over and above the solid gain of a scientific habit of mind, of which
I shall speak presently, the gain of mere facts, the increased
knowledge of this planet on which we live, is very valuable just now;
valuable certainly to all who do not wish their children and their
younger brothers to know more about the universe than they do.
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