Page:Archaeological Journal, Volume 7.djvu/15

Rh sole satisfaction is in acquiring, ranks indeed but little higher, intellectually, than the cabinet in which his treasure is secured. He but holds it in charge, as it were, for the instruction of those who are able to appreciate it, and who alone can give it its real value. Gratification of a certain kind may, it is true, be derived from the contemplation of a memorial of bygone times, in the associations that so busily crowd the fancy as it endeavours to penetrate into the obscure Past, and to identify itself in imaginary existence with the scenes and actors of a distant age. But this, if it goes no further than dwelling on visionary pictures, however brightly coloured, is but unreal and unprofitable dreaming. The pursuits of the antiquary have higher objects than only to invite or please poetical fancy, bright and welcome as is the sunshine it throws over our ordinary worldly occupations. To give character and purpose to our studies, in whatever direction they may lie, to fulfil in fact that vocation to which all are called, and for which undoubtedly their different or various talents have been given them, it is essential to make them contribute to some greater end than mere personal and present gratification. Generally speaking, antiquaries are not open, in these days, to the imputation of withholding information, or concealing from the curious and worthy inquirer any objects they may possess, of which the publication or examination can answer a useful purpose. Considering the value of their collections and the difficulty and expense which often has attended their acquisition, it may most truly be affirmed that they have generally manifested a most liberal desire to make them known, and instrumental in forwarding the great objects which antiquarian pursuits are intended and are so peculiarly calculated to advance.

It becomes those, then, who are really interested in what are the legitimate objects of Archaeology, to take care that so truly an important subject of intellectual study should be properly understood; to show that the establishment of so many actively employed societies, comprising among their members persons of learning, intelligence, and influence, is a guarantee to the public that the pursuit is not one of mere