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316 SELECTION OF BUILDING STONES. buted. The magnesian limestone of which it is built is a rock which, in its natural state, is subject to frequent and rapid variations in mineral character, and while one portion of a bed may be firm and durable, a neighbouring portion may have opposite qualities. All other formations are subject to similar changes though often in a less degree, and in all cases the necessity of selection is more or less imperative. Even in such an ordinary occupation as the selection of a block of hewn stone from its rocky bed, ex cellence is only to be obtained, as in all other arts, by patient industry and observation. Nature has abundant favours to bestow upon those who seek them with humility and care. The zealous suitor is certain of his reward; but she has no honours in store for the negligent, or the slothful.