The artists repository and drawing magazine: exhibiting the principles of the polite arts in their various branches (1.1787)

[ «49 ]

LECTURE VII.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

\T7HEN we look around among the al»
moil innumerable inhabitants of this
lower Creation, we are furprized, and de-
lighted with the variety of powers bellowed
on each; and with the happy fkill by which
thofe powers are adapted to their various
fituations, and circumftances. Our great
Author has given to fome creatures, life,
breath, motion, agility ; to others he has im-
parted what feems to us bare exiftence only.
Some remain pendent to their native rocks,
or buried in profound obfcurity abide in their
fubmarine receffes : Others

Sailing with fupreme dominion,
Through the azure deep of air—.—

foar beyond our aching fight. Some bound
over the hills, and dart along the plains;
others crawl their inch a day, and in piteous
cries bewail the neceffity which impels them
to fuch rapid motion. Equally various are the
talents of creatures; fhall I call mental talents,
thofe by which fome animals conftruct their

dwellings,