ONE of the remarkable characteristics of the present day is the existence of a spirit for the diffusion of a knowledge of the physical sciences, which have hitherto been expounded only in a college or a professed school of science; that time has happily passed away, for society begins to feel that it is an essential exercise of reason to investigate the relations which connect man with his Creator.

We see this great change apparent in the establishment of mechanic institutions, and in the introduction of those subjects into general education. With respect to mechanic institutions we may safely say that they are among the best guarantees for a people's advancement; for it is admitted that science opens sources of intellectual pleasure, which gra

dually create a distaste for those of a sensual nature. The change is also apparent in the system which begins to prevail, of instructing youth of both sexes in the elements of the physical sciences, which will not strain their intellectual powers, but tend to form habits of inquiry and research for a subsequent period of life.

Having been engaged for some years past in laying those subjects before the young mind by lecture, I can fearlessly assert that, with much care on the part of the teacher, and some attention on that of the pupil, the leading facts of science can be comprehended, and their importance appreciated at the age of 14 as well as at 24.

In advocating the system here alluded to, I trust that none will suppose me capable of wishing to undervalue the importance of classical knowledge ; the attempt to do so would not only be unwise but dangerous, as it would tend to destroy one of the foundations of knowledge. It may be here noticed that parents are now beginning to feel the importance of directing the female mind to such investigations. If such a system could be generally

introduced into female education, it would decidedly place woman in that position in society which her intellectual powers justly entitle her to.

I trust the reader will bear in mind that I do not profess to teach chemistry by the following treatise, or by my elementary lectures; the object of both is merely to awaken a spirit of inquiry. These pages, perhaps, may be compared to the groundwork which is laid upon the artist's canvas, without which preparation the skill of a Titian would be fruitless, for all the colours mingling with each other would prevent the harmonious outlines from being formed.

Dublin, 30th April, 1842.