PREFACE. Mineralogy, although a science of comparatively mo dern date, has, within a short period of time, made rapid advances. It was first successfully cultivated in Ger many. In Great Britain, so distinguished in all the other sciences and arts of life, it was, until lately, almost entirely neglected. Now, however, it has become with us a subject of general interest and attention, and, like Chemistry, is considered as a necessary branch of educa tion. The establishment of Lectureships and Societies, having Mineralogy as one of their principal objects, is a strong proof of the public feeling of the importance and , utility of this science. Within a few years, several of the Universities have founded Professorships of Mine ralogy ; and that munificent and patriotic association, the Honourable Dublin Society, have lately added to their establishment a Lecturer on this science. This example has been followed by other public bodies, and also by pri vate associations. ' Vol. I. h The