(83)

are fifteen in number, and include the remote dis- tricts. These districts have each voices in the legis- lature. These districts have already considerable organization, and these districts have distinctive local value as districts, and are the most convenient division, as to area, yet attempted. Each district would feel a fresh interest in its own welfare, with its census oflicer, as a representative to an agricul- tural board, and as this board would- meet quarterly there would be created? one of the most interesting organizations on the Island. because established on the mutual relationship ofdistant interests, and made capable of eradicating error, and furthering truth. A free college course ofstudy might be placed in the gift of each census officer, and a barometer and ther- mometer, supplied by Government to each for his use, besides an allowance for travelling to the city and back as members of the apricultural board.

We think that an arrangement ofthis sort would cement some of the political breaches, harmonise some ofthe harsh cries of party, reconcile some of ‘ the jealous antagonisms of cliques, draw closer to— gether opposing interests, arrest disagreeable tenden- cies, and raise every man in his own esteem; without which ambition: is a fable, enterprise :1 figure of speech, and progress but a delusive motion.

CHAPTER XV. NATURAL HISTORY.

Iris always a noteworthy sign of progress in a new province, when the cares of fresh settlement will suffer relaxation, and objects of natural history are allowed a place in the thoughts of the household. Even specimens brought home as mere curiosities, and ephemeralised as playthings, are gratifying evi~ , dence to a. lover of science of the existence at least 33