As there exists with us no peculiar class professedly devoted to
science, it frequently happens that when a situation, requiring
for the proper fulfilment of its duties considerable scientific
attainments, is vacant, it becomes necessary to select from among
amateurs, or rather from among persons whose chief attention has
been bestowed on other subjects, and to whom science has been
only an occasional pursuit. A certain quantity of scientific
knowledge is of course possessed by individuals in many
professions; and when added to the professional acquirements of
the army, the navy, or to the knowledge of the merchant, is
highly meritorious: but it is obvious that this may become, when
separated from the profession, quite insignificant as the basis
of a scientific reputation.

To those who have chosen the profession of medicine, a knowledge
of chemistry, and of some branches of natural history, and,
indeed, of several other departments of science, affords useful
assistance. Some of the most valuable names which adorn the
history of English science have been connected with this
profession.

The causes which induce the selection of the clerical profession
are not often connected with science; and it is, perhaps, a
question of considerable doubt whether it is desirable to hold
out to its members hopes of advancement from such acquirements.
As a source of recreation, nothing can be more fit to occupy the
attention of a divine; and our church may boast, in the present
as in past times, that the domain of science has been extended by
some of its brightest ornaments.