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THE IMPORTANCE OF^ COMMUNICATING LITE1URY» SGJENTlPiC, AND ,, MECHANICAL KNOWLEDGE TO THE WORKING CLASSES. . ... - ^.: ■■■ V i AN ■£ V*- ^5C^ ..■:,-:-^ :j?^' ^*t DEllVERED Kf ■*^.:;- THE MEOHANlGSi INSTITUTEi SAINT JOHN, N.|, NOVBBIBaR 27, IMS, JBy THE Rev. J. G, fiALLAWAY, A. M, AND Pi/BLISHED BY %m REaUEST OF THE DIRECTORS. K^ ' " i » ! . i | SAINT JOH«, N. % I>R1N^P AT THE BOOK AND Jpp OFFICE OF ROBERT SpIVES. t-- mk ■a:c:-.-^;.a.* n..*.. #" svy ,V'/ tr.w ■■0"' I •!::' V^>'.V r .C-j^^mH' 'M:^' *l '" WMi'' ?i*^' W' ♦ ■r-' IV- ■^TrfT""^^ 1 TjfjfT;p\^Tir.^ri^H "n ° ■■■■ /- «;Ttt • ,1 ^JTT^T !WWP "'ri^TT'^,* ' m^ ' " *^ r'-«w- ■ ' f "^-" ' ^ "^ "^ ' I f FD I, , 1 1^ ' • f I _, f ni^ ' . ' i ^i [. ^^';f7"^*^^'j"w^'*w>.-Tj .*.-jipf-jk ais" Mecl comr latior - ally ( 1 our I and s mane but ^\ every Fran profes Fran] the hi impra and c suppo prom( Institi r Dr. I ADDRESS. Ladies and Gentlemen, It is with no affectation thn.t I oonlbss a considcraljlc measure of reluctance in occupying the position in which I stand this evening. My very recent en- trance into this City, and the peculiar responsibility attached to the delivery of an address introductory to a long series of important lectures, in an Institution so highly respectable as the one on whose behalf we now assemble, may natu- rally explain my unwiUingncss to appear before you. The difficulty, however, in which the Directors were placed by the unexpected inability, through ill health, of the intended Lecturer to fulfil his engagement, seemed to me, on re- ceiving their application, to involve a claim, to which my personal scruples were bound to yield. The subject to which I respectfully invite your attention, is, the claims of Mechanics' Institutes in general, or, in other Avords, the great importance of communicating literary, scientific, and mechanical knowledge to the adult popu- lation, more especially, though not exclusively, to that portion which we gener- ally denominate the working classes. One obvious feature of the present day is a rigid inquiry into the utility of our Institutions. Nothing will stand the ordeal through which all human plans and systems are passing, but the really useful ; and no undertaking will com- mand the respect and cooperation of the enlightened men of the present century, but what can render a satisfactory answer to the query in the lips of almost every school-boy, " cui bono ?" It was a sound and characteristic remark of Franklin, "What signifies philosophy that is not of some use?" I do not profess myself a utilitarian in every thing, much as I admire the judgment of Franklin or the more refined genius of Paley. As it is utterly impossible for the human mind, in some matters, to ascertain their ultimate bearings ; so is it impracticable, in such cases, to apply the test of utility. But, wherever the fair and certain results can be ascertained, we shall very rarely err in determining our support to a proposed undertaking by the advantages or disadvantages which it promotes. By this criterion, I for one, am quite willing that all Mechanics' Institutes should either stand or fall. The founder of these Institutions was the enlightened and philanthropic Dr. Birkbeck. The Doctor was one of the regular lecturer at the Anderson- '•^t^m^ffmrnfiw i»> « niwm" ian Institution at Glasgow. That Institution was founded, as its name inti- mates, by Professor Anderson, and was intended to difluso to a wider extent, and in a more popular form than the University provided, knowledge on scien- tific subjects. It was not originally intend(>d for the benefit of Mechanics, but lectures to that class were given by Dr. BirUbcck, in addition to those given by him at the Andcrsonian College, and originated in the following circumstance. When the Doctor became a Lecturer at the Institution already mentioned, the City of GJlasi'gow contained only one maker of philosophical instruments. — • Thi^! monopolist was, to mend the matter, extremely dilatory in thn execution of his orders. Necessity, therefore, that parent of invention, drove Dr. Birkbcck to contrive instruments for himself Not being sufficiently skilled in the mechanical art, he merely drew the designs, and applied to diflforent work- men to conduct the manual operation. Thn novelty of the designs awakened the surprise and inquiry of the operatives. Their investigation indicated so much interest in mechanical contrivance, and their queries were so intelligent, that the Doctor immediately determined to deliver to them a course of Lectures on the principles of Mechanics. The sole object of the Lecturer was to supply workmen with scientific knowledge. Ho thought it duo to their intelligence, and highly conducive to the better execution of their work, and the general ad- vancement of mechanical art, to instruct the operatives in the principles of their handicraft, and thus combine theory with practice — science with art. Dr. Birkbeck commenced his Lectures to Mechanics in the year 1800. About 80 workmen were induced to attend the inaugural address; but when tho intelligent founder left Glasgow for London, some years after, the usual num- ber of attendants amounted to kcwccn five and six hundred. Owing to his re- tirement, the association grnduaily declined. At length the mechanics with- drew from the Andersonian College, and formed an Association c" their own. Thus commenced what may properly be termetl the first Mechanics' Insti- tute in the world. They formed a library, a laboratory, a museum, and es- tablished lectures ; keeping steadily in view the design of their founder, — the scientific instruction of the working classes. That Institution is now, I believe, in a highly flourishing state. It was not long before Edinburgh and Liverpool imitated the example set them by Glasgow. At length the mechanics of liondon were induced by means of the Mechanics' Magazine, edited by Robertson and Hodgson, to form themselves into a similar association, and received much valuable aid from Professor Millington, once himself a mechan- ic, Henry Brougham, and Dr. Birkbeck. The Metropolis, like the heart in the human system, had no sooner begun to beat, than a corresponding pul- sation was difTuscd throughout the land. Hence England has become al- most as noted for affording useful instruction to her mechanics, as she has risen into wealth by the labour of their hands. As England imitated Scotland, so France copied from Great Britain; and even independent America has not re- fused to take a similar lesson from her mother land. ■ ;, v Having supplied you with this brief sketch of the nature, origin, and ob- jocts of Mechanics' Institutions, I beg to call your attention lo the question of their utility. You are well aware that this question is even yet warmly agitated. Both tho opponents and the friends of these Institutions have been tempted, as is the case in all controversy, to indulge in extravagant assertions. Declamation has too often supplied the place of argument, and each party has made an undue attempt to awaken cither the fears or the hopes of the community, instead of convincing their judjfmcnt.s. Wo have been assured, on llie one hand, that Mechanics' Institutes will secure much more bcnelit to the community, than all the various means of religious instruction, and all the inducnce of Christianity on the human mind. On the other hand, these Institutes are con- demned for supplying information of an extremely superficial cliaractcr, degen- erating into mere training schools for revolutionary democrats, and proving the hot-beds of infidelity. I need not say that I wholly dissent from both these representations. I am not so enamoured with these Institutions, as to imagine that they will remedy all the evils which we endure, and accomplish all the good that we need ; neither am I prepared to admit the force of any of the objection? that 1 have just stated. As to the superficial character ofthe instruction communicated by these Insti- tutions, I may remark that the amount of any man's knowledge is a perfectly com- parative thing. The attainments ofthe mechanic, contrasted with those of the well- educated man, may be superficial — but compare the acquisitions of the greatest philosopher, with the volume of nature itself, and arc not they superficial? — Did not even Sir Isaac Newton liken his own acquirements to the success of the child who occasionally finds a rounder pebble and a prettier shell than his companion, while the great ocean of truth lay unexplored before him? Look, again, to our Colleges and Universities, and will not this objection urged against Mechanics' Institutes, to a great extent, apply to them ? It is true that the students have more time and richer opportunities ibr pursuing their in- quiries than the working classes can command ; but do the former duly avail themselves of these superior advantages? Are not the attainments of a large number notoriously superficial, Avhile the hard student, and the really success- ful competitor for high University honours, are the exception and not the rule? Would it be deemed wise on account of the superficial attainments of so many ofthe pupils, to condemn these schools of learning ? But allowing the full force of the objection to such Institutions as those for which I plead ; what. I ask, is the remedy ? Will you correct the danger of "a little knowledge," by supplying none? Will you escape the inconvenience of the feeble twilight, by praying for the return of total darkness? No, avoid the evil, if evil it be, by multiply- ing such Institutions, by giving each a more generous support, and by holding out the necessary inducements to pursue the studies which such Institutions en- courage, to the greatest extent practicable. Neither is it fair to object to Mechanics' Institutions on the ground that they are calculated to raise up a class of political partizans, or promote revolu- tionary changes. Party politics are uniformly excluded as matters of dis- cussion in such Institutions ; and whatever the leading bias of the majority of their supporters may be, no partiality that I am aware of, is ever evinced in the choice of the publications introduced into the reading rooms or the library. — The Mechanics' Magazine, which is the acknowledged orgon of these Institu- tions, is as free from political preference, as the greatest lover of peace can rationally desire. Persons of very opposite views in these respects, are enrolled as members of the same Institution; and Dr. Birkbcck, their founder, most emphatically stated at the formation ofthe Institute in London, on behalf of him- self, and those who co-operated with him, — '' All intentions of interierencc with political questions we disclaim ; and not leas cheerfully than advantageously do 8 ill wc rcfliffn them to that ' patriot eloquonco,' which cnn ehakc the senate, and flush down Hro upon our country's Iocs." I beg, briefly to refer to the third great objection which is urged against iheso Institutions — I allude to their irreligious tendency. Devoted as my whole life is to the promotion of religion among my fellow men ; fully pcrrsuaded as I am that genuine Christianity is the greatest boon our world has ever received you can easily imagine that if this objection appeared to my mind valid, I shoulcl not have taken the position which I deem it an honor to occupy this evening. — I am most ready to allow that no education is complete that absolutely and positively excludes instruction of a religious character. But it does not follow, that religion ought to be taught in the same place, by the same person, and at the same lime that wc receive information on other subjects. Deny this princi- ple, and to what will it lead? It will oblige you to inquire of every man who attempts to impart to you any information, whether he is religious ; and to re- fuse to receive his instruction, hov/cver sound, however refined, however appro- priate to your circumstances, merely because he is njt competent to teach reli- gion. This objection, if sound, would invalidate almost every lecture which is delivered in any of the Universities of Great Britain. It would nullify the pro- ceedings of Parliament, and would put an end to most of the intercourse in life that exists between the good and the wicked. No Missionary could employ a pundit till that man became converted ; and the Principia of Newton ought not to be studied bcrausn they do not enjoin the duty of man to God, his neigh- bour and himself The out-cry against Mechanics' Institutes, on the ground of their exclusion of religion as a subject of instruction, I consider to be raised only with a view to put them down. It is shrewdly foreseen that the introduc- tion of such teaching, in the divided state of the christian church, would be per- fectly impracticable. Such instruction must bo either so minute as to become decidedly sectarian, or so meagre, as to degenerate into mere form. The founders of these Institutions, perceiving the certain result of one of these alter- natives, wisely resolved to abandon the attempt ; choosing to aim at what was attainable, rather than relinquish all that was desirable ; preferring to do some good, however little, rather than by aiming at impossibilities, doing no good at all. They made no effort to exclude the subject of religion from the attention of the members. They merely stated that instruction on that subject did not come within the limits of their undertaking: hence they left each individual to the direction of his own conscience, and the means of instruction of which he Qould easily avail himself, at other times, and from other sources. ■' Having thus endeavoured to meet some of the most plausible objections which are occasionally urged against these Institutions, I proceed to specify the advantages which they are calculated to promote when eflicieritly conducted. — I advocate such Institutions on the following grounds : — I. All men are qualified, and therefore entitled to acquire such knowledge as these Institutes convey. IE. Such knowledge affords pleasant and profitable recreation to the mind. '. , -> III. It is fivourable to the ci Hivation of domestic virtue. • ■ IV. It is conducive to the pecuniary advantage of its possessor, V. It accelerates the general progress of the arts and sciences. VI. It promotes the general peace and improvement of the community. yil. It is an assistant rather than an impediment to the progress of genu- ine Christianity. 1) As far as yDiir paticuicc will allow mo, I shall ciuleavour lo illijfetrato and celablish rach oftlicHc propositions. I. All men, 1 maintain, arc (iiifilidtHJ. anil thoroforc entitled to acfjiiiro snrh knowledge as iIkjso Institution^^ prot'rss to imparl. To deny that an essential dillerenco exists in the orininal conbtitnlion of human minds; and to maintain that all intellects arc as desiitnto of peculiar capabilities, and peculiar preference as a sheet of hlunk jmper, is, in my opinion, to sacrilice liu't to theory, and to Bhnt our ey(^s to the cvery-day ijeencs of lile, in order to maintain a liivoiuitc hypothesis. No education could turn a John Locke into a John Milton ; or make the cool-headed Stagirito the author of ihc Iliad. Rut stilly if education catmot do every thintjf, it can accomplisli much; and no human bcini; that posscs.srs our common faculties, in a stale of ordinary erpiilihrium, need despair of making many atlaimnonts, which previous to the attempt, may fill him with inexpressible wonder, and whicU he may nomoro expect to gain, than he may anticipate a journey to tlio moon. 1 )oes not the ex- perience of some of rr.y prtisent auditors confirm the truth of this remark 1 Or have you not witnessed in others the most astonishing results of mental applictv tion ? Did not Sir Isaac Newton say of himself, that the only diflerenco which he thought existed between him and other men, was, that ho wa? blessed with the capacity o^ al foil inn m a jjreater degree than they? Study tlie lives and characters of some of the most remarkable men in the scientific world. What was their early history, what degree of precocity did they evince, what startling dis- coveries were made, till their minds — those minds that possessed precisely the same essential (acuities which yours and mine are blessed with, I mean sensa- tion, memory and judgment — till their minds, I say, had either been long con- versant with tlic subject in which they afterwards excelled, or by some very fortu- itous circumstance, liad discovered an outlet into a wider field of human contemplation? Ami not supported in these remarks by the history of Pro- fessor Sanderson, Ferguson, Emerson, Joseph Luckcock of Birmingham, Watts of Bristol, Arkwright and Compton, Professor Millington, and even the renowned James Watt of Glasgow ? And am I not further supported in my opinion, by the general history of the arts and sciences — a hi.story which uni- formly bears testimony to this fact, that all progress in these departments has been extremely gradual ; and that the discoveries of some more favoured ad- venturers, while they greatly surpassed those of distant ages, did not advance very far beyond the improvements of their immediate predecessors; so that the present height of the temple of knowledge is not to be attributed to the miglity effort of one, or a few master spirits, but, like the ancient tumulus raised in hon- or of departed glory, has been built by the small offerings of separate devotees, each of the later contributors bringing it nearer to its ultimate altitude, chiefly in virtue of the elevation to which it had been raised by other hands? Yes, na- ture has blessed all men with the faculty of studying, and appreciating many of her works ; and the excellence, the lo'elincss, the utility of these works ought to be regarded as so many cajls upon you to take the lamp of reason and go forth and explore her mysteries. Would God have blessed you with the facuL ty, and supplied you with the sphere and opportunity for its exercise, if he had not intended, that your :nind should bo so employed? It is your duty to study the works of your Maker, and ho, I consider, is discharging, I will almost say a religious duty, who supports all endeavourL that arc calculated to bring tb I'l' id around him — mind, I say, be it that of the rich or the poor, in profita- 10 ■(•' blc contact with the wonders of creation. Let the human rnind be unemployed, and like the uncultivated vine, its growth will be its weakness, and meagre will be its produce. But train and cultivate, inform and discipline, and tl.erc is not a sane intellect that may not rise to eminc.ice, and become worthy of itself, and highly beneficial to others. Yes, as true as beautiful is the language of the poet, " The vine luxurious, if neglected, lies Prone on the earth, and unsupported dies ; So dawning reason, in a youthful mind, Remains inactive, dormant, and confined, Till edu(vation calls its powers forth. Extends its prospects, and makes known its worth." I.I. The diffusion of knowledge among the working classes ought to be encouraged, further, as a truly gratifying and highly valuable recreation. In confirmation of this view of the subject, I cannot do better than supply you with the sentiments and language of that truly elo(iuent writer, and very enlightened friend of his race, the late Rev. Robert Hall, of Bristol : " Know- ledge," he says, " in general, expands the mind, exalts the faculties, refines the taste of pleasure, and opens innumerable sources of intellectual enjoyment. By means of it we become less dependent for satisfaction upon the sensitive appe- tites; the gross pleasures of sense arc more easily despised, and we are made to feel the superiority of the spiritual to the material part of ournature. Instead of being continually solicited by the influence and irritation of sensible objects, the mind can retire within herself, and expatiate in the cool and quiet walks of contemplation. The author of nature has wisely annexed a pleasure to the ex- ercise of our active powers, and particularly to tne pursuit of truth, which, if it be m some instances less intense, is far more durable than the gratifications of sense : and this duration, to say nothing of its other properties, renders it in- comparably more valuable. It may be repeated without satiety, and pleases afresh with every contemplation upon it. These are self-created satisfactions, p.lways within our reach, not dependant on events; not requiring a peculiar com bination of circumstances to produce or maintain them ; they rise from the mind itself, and inhere, so to speak, in its very substance. Let the mind but retain its proper functions, and they spring up spontaneously, unsolicited, unborrowed and unbought. Even the difficulties ancl impediments which obstruct the pur- suit of truth, serve, according to the economy under which we are placed, to render it more interesting. The labour of intellectual research resembles and exceeds the tumultuous pleasures of the chase; and the consciousness of over- coming a formidable obstacle, or of lighting upon some happy discovery, give'J all the enjoyments of a conquest, without tnosc corroding reflections by which the latter must be impaired. Can we doubt," he adds, " that Archimedes, who Avas so absorbed in his contemplations, as not to be diverted from them by the sacking of his native city, and was killed in the very act of meditating a mathe- matical theorem, did not, when he exclaimed : ' I have found it, I have found it,' (eel a transport as genuine, as was ever experienced after the most brilliant victory ?" " Knowledge," says Dr. Birkbcck, " like virtue, is its own rcwnrd. and the pleasure resulting from mental exercise, and the satisfaction resulting Irom the attainment of truth, is a sufficient compensation for the labour of study, when un- attended by pecuniary or commercial advantage." 11 ■y, givrJ This vicvv of ihe subject is highly important. Separating all the personal and relative advantages that may accrue from knowledge ; there is in the attain mont itself a pleasure and reward of the most valuable kind. It is a pleasure perfectly satisfactory and truly refined ; a pleasure that is neither wrong h itself, nor injurious to others ; a pleasure which awakens no bitter reflections, and •which can be resorted to in seclusion from the world, and in circumstances of the most trying destitution. That man renders no tribute of praise to his Maker, and proves himself no true philanthropist who frowns upon human happiness, or discountenances, all kinds of recreation. Amusements that brutalize, while they divert, which, if tbcy do not necessarily involve gross excesses, naturally lead to them; so that the patronage of such diversions, is in eflfect giving sanction to drunken- ness and some of the worst forms of sensual indulgence — amusements of this character it is obviously neither wise nor kind to encourage. Let the poorer classes have their pleasures. But let those pleasures be manly, not childish ; elevating, not lowering ; intellectual, not sensual. Encourage the diffusion of useful knowledge ; train up the human mind to think, and think profoundly ; present to its contemplation the field of nature; promote excursions to scenes of geological research, or mechanical contrivance; favour associations for intel- lectual intercourse and mutual improvement. By such means open up a foun- tain of solid, refined, and permanent gratification. In this way entice the lower orders, if so inclined, from savage diversion and haunts of vice. Enter no pro- test against human happiness, but awaken a taste for that enjoyment which ele- vates and improves, while it fully meets the real necessity of our nature. I need not say that the direct tendency of the Institutions that I advocate, is the promotion of that recreation which I have now described. in. Closely allied to the argument which I have just urged in favour of the diffusion of knowledge, is its influence on the cultivation of domestic virtue. It is possible that the pursuit of knowledge may draw away an individual from his fire-side, and the duties of home. He may be induced to attend the reading or the class room rather more frequently than is compatible with the right discharge of his domestic obligations. But for one offender of this kind, I think we may say that the reading and class rooms have been the means of keeping fifty from spending their evenings in scenes of sensual indulgence, and of quali- fying them for the belter discharge of the duties of home. A man that has ac- quired a taste for information is most likely to be found in the midst of his family, either imparting to them the result of his reading, or continuing his studies in that retreat where he is least exposed to the distractions of the world. In proportion, as the different members of his household become better informed, their society is more attractive to him, and he feels the less tempted to spend his time away from home. He, too, commaisds greater respect, than which nothing is more favourable to the exercise of legitimate authority or the cultivation of genuine af- fection. Let this important view of the subject be tested by an appeal to facts. I hesitate not to say, that if you take an equal number of families ^rom two classes of the community, one class consisting of the grossly ignorant, the other of the Avcll-in formed, (leaving worldly opulence and religion out of the question,) you will find the well-informed householdhappy among themselves, mutually respect- ful, and well-behaved; v/hile the grossly ignorant, having no common attraction, rarely meet, are extremely irregular in all their pursuits, and exhibit little else than disgusting indulgence, mutual dislike, and deliberate revenge. Am I not correct ill 12 in these views ? Who then that professes to be the friend of mankind, will not encourage, in every appropriate way, the diffusion of knowledge ? IV, Next to virtue, it is laudable to aim at the improvement of our worldly condition. On this principle I ground another argument in favour of Mechan- ics' Institutes. It does no'., I apprehend,- require much penetration to discover the connec- tion that exists between the jiossession of knowledge and the improvement of one's finances. What workmen are most sought after; and who are most successful in fixing a high value upon their own labour ? The dull, the ignor- ant, the unskilful ? Allowing, of course, that with knowledge is associated those moral principles which are indispensable in turning this knowledge to a good account; and which moral principles are equally necessary in all the transactions of lifES— allowing this, the best informed operative is the best paid. Knowledge is an instrument placed in his hand, which renders him a more skil- ful, and therefore, more valuable workman than his ignorant companion. — Knowledge also operates in facilitating discoveries which may prove peculiarly profitable in a pecuniary respect. The history of the arts and sciences supplies us with several instances in which a happy invention lead to the acquisition of considerable wealth. The discovery of making patent shot, which cost Watts, a plumber in Bristol, the easy outlay of a dream, and the conveyance of a little heated lead to the top of a church tower, soon placed in the hands of its author the welcome present of ten thousand pounds. The renowned James Watt was in a small way of business as an instrument maker to the University of Glasgow, when he made his great improvement in the steam engine. Really princely, as all persons who have visited Aston Hall, near Birmingham, well know, was the fortune which this wonderful discovery enabled its author to acquire, and transmit to another generation. I dare not pledge myself, that if all of you will endeavonr to improve your minds, and apply diligently to mechanical art, or other pursuits, that you will draw the prize of either ten thousand pounds, or another Aston Hall ; nor Avould I venture to recommend you to attach any very great importance to such wealth, any further than it will enable you to realize the sublime aphorism of the Great I'eacher : " it is more blessed to give than receive." But oiie thing I feel that I can safely pledge : it is this — knowledge, if it may not be the means of directly increasing your ordinary income, is very likely to suggest plans, and promote habits which will enable you to turn that income to the best advantage. Econo- my is often much more profitable than genius. Little savings generally tell up better than happy inventions. And so for, my auditors, as it is worthy of you to aim at the acquisition of property, I recommend to you the formation of those habits of reflection, forethought, temperance, and frugality, which the steady pursuit of knowledge is likely to engender. V. The remarks which I have just made on the subject of invention, na- turally suggest a fifth argument in favour of that diffusion of knowledge which 13, promoted by the Institutes for which I plead — I refer to the general progress of the arts and sciences. It is a highly interesting and encouraging fact that most of the great im- provements in these departments have originated in extremely trivial circum- stances. Thus the renowned Galileo was lead to make his discoveries m the laws of motion, by observing the oscillation of a lamp suspended from a ceiling. 13 Every one knows thftt the fall of an apple was the first circumstance thut con- ducted the immortal Newton to his grand and comprehensive theory on the sub- ject of gravitation. Cavallo, by means of a soap bubble, the plaything of chil- dren, was enabled to exhibit the most successful mode of aeriel navrigation ; and Franklin, who, for the encouragement of the working classes, it should ever be remembered, was himself an operative, made a discovery, by means of a kite, which has given a new nomenclature to science, has exploded many old theories, has afforded explanation to many most important phenomena, is daily leading to practical results of the greatest value, and has, in a word, secured for its author a name and place amongst " bards and sages old, immortal sons of praises." From these facts, you may clearly perceive that the sphere of discovery is within your reach. The most evcry-day event of life, the oscillation of a lamp, the falling of an apple, the floating of a soap bubble, the flying of a kite, to which I may add the puffing of the tea-kettle, when contemplated with an in- telligent eye, can lead to consequences of the utmost importance, in relation to the advancement of science, and the general comfort of the community. But, da not imagine that it is only requisite to gaze upon these trifles, and then be con- ducted, by a sudden leap, to some momentous discovery. Millions of minds had contemplated these facts before the period of Galileo, Cavallo, Newton, and Franklin. But the minds of these great men were previously stored with use- ful information. The general subject had been floating in their minds before these little events gave an impulse and direction to their inventive powers. They had made themselves somewhat familiar with the theories and experiments of others, and by these means were enabled to elicit such mighty results from such trivial beginnings. Hence then the vast importance of furnishing your minds with general principles that you may apply them to the explanation of common facts ; hence the value of becoming conversant with science that you may bring it to bear upon the improvements of art. Without such previous knowledge, you may waste your labours and consume your time in idle musing and in vain succesti. You may, afier years of much toil, find that you have merely been acquirin r what other mincb had long known ; and had it been your first aim to make yourselves familiar with their attainments, most of the time and labour that you may otherwise spend in reaching the position which they had previously attain- ed, might have been employed, in carrying you into a new and wider field. It is not originality, it is a contemptible self-conceit that induces a man to disregard the views and improvements of other minds. He is the true genius, and I may add the true philanthropist who lays a broad foundation for his future inventions, in an extensive acquaintance with the success of others. The intelligent editor of the Scotsman, in giving his testimony to the Mechanics* Magazine, the de- sign of which most interesting periodical is to furnish artizans with scientific information, and especially with a knowledge of recent improvements, says in reference to that class, " nine tenths of their projected improvements are delu- sions originating in their igiiorance ; and when they do hit upon something real- ly useful, they work their way to it through twenty fallacies. Chemistry and mechanics, (the latter embracing also' geometry and algebra,) are the two eyefi of the useful arts; and were persons, who engage in mechanical projects to be- gin by acquiring a knowledge of these, they would place themselves on a van- tage ground, and save much labour, and avoid many errors afterwards/' 14 If r'li : i VI. Naturally arising from the view which I have just taken of the advan- tage of supplying mechanics with scientific knowledge, is the consideration of the benefit that will be secured to the community in general, by the better in- struction of that portion of society, for whom such Institutes as these are exprcs- ly and primarily intended. So far as the diffusion of knowledge among the working classes promotes their welfare, so far the community requires a direct benefit ; and the very large numbers of that part of society, render such benefit correspondingly extensive. But we do not fairly estimate the benefit derived by the community at large from the better education of the working classes, if we limit our attention to the direct advantages which that section of the community separately enjoy. So- ciety is held together by mutual dependence and vital relationship. One portion of the pyramid is not less essential to the constitution of the entire form, than is one section of the community to the stability, order, and beauty of the State. Nay, if we must allude to the question of mutual dependence, it would not be difficult to show that however important the upper classes of society may be; their importance, in relation to the welfare of the Empire, is not by any means greater than that of the lower orders. And which is the direct and certain way of benefiting all the various grades of society ? Is it by devoting our great effort to the further advancement of the higher, or by combining in an appropriate undertaking to raise the lower? Obviously the latter is the course marked out by reason and experience. The education of the rich does not necessarily in- volve the better education of the poor; but the intellectual improvement of the lower orders does necessitate a proportionate advancement in the higher. The wealthier sectionss of society have always better opportunities for intellectual and moral improvement, than those who are dependent for their daily sustenance on their daily toil. The motive too, to maintain their advanced portion will al- ways be sufficiently strong to induce them to avail themselves of their better means. Hence there is no danger of the higher circles losing their posi- tion in society, whatever may be the progress of the lower. Every step in ad- vance which is made by the working classes, necessitates a proportionate move- ment in those grades which occupy a more elevated position. A well-informed working population, Avill necessarily create a well-informed aristocracy. The raising of the upper tiers that form a part of the pyramid, will not necessarily raise the lower, but by placing the well adjusted machine beneath the lowest range, you elevate the whole. That man lays his plans for the amelioration of mankind, on the wisest principle, who directs his special attention to the masses of society, and endeavours to raise the character of the lowest. Our greatest, our perfect Exemplar displayed his wisdom as much as his benevolence in that feature of his public ministry, which was avowed in his well known declaration that " to the poor the Gospel is preached." The progress of human society hither- to, bears testimony to the soundness of this mode of procedure ; and fully as- sured am I, that when that glorious era shall arrive, of which the page of inspiration speaks — a period when all mankind shall obtain the highest kind of knowledge, the movement toward that result will be found on a careful retrospect, to have been "from the least to the greatest." I am quite aware that to some, these sentiments are not quite agreeable. There are individuals to be met with in the upper wnlks of life, who look with extreme jealousy, not to say alarm, upon all direct efforts to instruct and advance the worldng classes. These individuals prefer continuing things i i * tie 15 le advan- iration of better in- •c exprcs- promotes ery largo extensive. at large ion to the ijoy. So- ne portion 1, than is the State, lid not be ' may be ; iny means crtain way »reat efTort ppropriate larked out ssarily in- tent of the her. The intellectual sustenance DU will al- heir better their posi- step in ad- nate mo ve- il-informed acy. The necessarily the lowest lioration of the masses ir greatest, nee in that declaration ietyhither- nd fully as- hc page of lighest kind a careful e agreeable. !, who look to instruct uing things s as they are. They arc annoyed at the ncccs!.sity that is laid upon thcni to alter their position in consequence of a movement from beneath. But why this complaint? The higher circles have their peculiar privileges and hon- ors; may they not reasonably reckon upon certain inconvenicncics as v/ell?- And yet, if the sum, or the result of this annoyance be a necessity to be- come sounder thinkers, wiser philosophers, and more enlightened philanthropists, will not they, as well as the community at large, be benefited by the change? Let me not be misunderstood. Strongly as I advocate every appropriate plan by which it is possible to elevate, both intellectually and morally, the working population, I am no leveller in relation to the different sections of society. — I approve of titles of distinction, and am quite prepared to render due honor to honorable birth and hereditary right. Belonging, moreover, as I do, to a body of men .whose forefathers were the principal agents in establishing the House of Hanover on the British throne, it is almost superfluous for me to avow my strong attachment to the monarchy, especially as it is administered by that illustri- ous lady, who at the present time so gracefully and so nobly adorns the high station to which Providence has called her. I advocate all efforts calculated to raise the lower orders, not with a view to bring down the higher, but from an earnest wish to elevate all. I maintain that a benefit will be rendered to the higher circles by this necessity to advance, and that a much closer bond of union and respect will exist between the higher and the lower, in proportion, as all be- come better informed and so more entitled to respect. Masters have nothing to fear from theintelligence of theirservants, if they render to thoseservants that which is just and equal: and hereditary legislators have nothing to fear from a well-informed community, if they act worthily of the solemn trust committed to their care, by the enactment of wise and generous laws. I cannot better con- firm these remarks than by quoting the able words of an anonymous Avriter. — " The submission of a free people to the executive authority of government is no more than a compliance with laws which they themselves have made. While the national honor is firmly maintained abroad, and while justice is impartially- administered at home, the obedience of the subject will be voluntary, cheerful, and I might almost say, unlimited. A generous nation is grateful even for the preservation of its rights, and willingly extends the affection due to the office of# good prince into an aflfection for his person. LoyaUy in the heart, and under- standing of an Englishman is a rational attachment to the guardian of the laws." VII. It would ill become me, long as I have trespassed on your patience, to bring these remarks to a close, without an allusion to the bearing of my subject on the highest interep*;^ f human nature. The diflfusion of knowledge of the kind and to the extent to which I have referred, will be of great benefit to man, if it lead to no further attainment^;. But to rest in such knowledge would leave him destitute of the riches^ pleasures, the greatest dignity, and the highest hopes which human nature can realize. In other words, a proper acquaintance with Christianity is the noblest and most valuable attainment of man. Enlightened, genuine, heartfelt religion is our greatest acquisition. Secular knowledge will do much for its possessor : Christianity will do infinitely more. The first fits him for a discharge of some of those duties, and for the enjoyment of some of those pleasures which appertain to this life ; the second draws within the range of his contemplation matters of infinite moment, and enables him to bring to bear upon his present occupations, the pure and ennobling motives which arc derivable from the hope of immortality. IG m I: But what relation will that inferior dcpartntent of knowledge gwhich 1 have advocated in this address, sustain to that infinitely higher one JHlflti^h I have now alluded ? Will the first promote, or will it retard, the scMp^ My firm persuasion is that every advance in sound knowledge is favourSfJIo to the cause of Christianity. Truth loves light. Error prospers in proportion to the ignorance ^f its victim; Ignorance is the mother of superstition, not of ge- nuine religk)n. The greater the intelligence of the community, the better pre- pared will they be to understand and appreciate those evidences on v/hich Chris- tianity grounds its claim upon the credence of mankind. No one need fear that the growing, intelligence of society will endanger the stability of that religion, the evidences and the claims of which perfectly satisfied the minds of Bacon, New- ton, Milton, Locke, and Boyle. The more men know, with the greater facility will they detect the sophistries of the infidel, and the better prepared will they be to do justice to solid evidence. Never was the cause of Chriartianity more firm- ly and abundantly sustained by incontrovertible proof than now ; and never was it surrounded by more general intelligence, or advocated with a more direct ap- peal td human reason. Hence its growing influence upon the tltiderstanding and tlfe hearts of men. On such grounds I commend to your enlightened arid cordial support this Institution, and every appropriate effort to diffuse general knowledge. The hu^ man mind is capable of receiving such knowledge— such knowledge affords a pleasant and profitable recreation — it is favourable to the cultivation of domestic vir- tue — it is conducive to the pecuniary advantage of its possessor-^it accelerates the general progress of ihe arts and sciences-^it promotes the welfero of states — and js an auxiliary to the cause of genuine religion. These objects hSive been realized, to a certain extent, by Mechanics' Insti- . tutes, and wilt be increasingly gained in proportion as they are efficiently support- ed. Such objects are well worthy the attention of all enlightened and philanthro- pic mindSi Heartily do I congratulate this assembly, this City, and I may add, this Province, that such an Institute as the one on whose behalf we now assem- ble, is formed in this place^ Still more heartily do I congratulate you ot^ the amount of public sympathy and support by which this admirable Institutioti is ^stained. Having, by an unexpected concunence of events, become one of your number, I may say, without exposing myself, I trust, to the chars^e of eidier egotism or presumption, that I shall ever esteem it both an honor and a pleasure to take my share, hpwever humble, in furthering the interests of this Institute ; or in assisting any other plan adapted to promote th& intellectual and moral im-' proveimeat of the working classes* 4 , ,* 1 Imahiyl. ,4)ul'-'; \\h? »>i; [Printed by RoBfear Shivbs, Book and Job Printer, &c. St. John, N. 8.1" ft';' .*.)■ - \ -r ■ ■■ Jhi IJ hill '■niM'i m^^ii $fr X lliich t k My 3 to tho n to the mt of ge- tter pre^ 1 Chris- ear that fion, the n, New- facility ill they ore firm- 3ver was irect ap- ling and port this The hu- lifords a lesticvir- srates the .tes — and cs' Insti- support- lilanthro- nay add, V assem- m otY the itutioti IB le one of I of either pleasure Ins^tute ; noral im-' r. TiJi mUl