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240 labour is perfectly compatible with daily toil. The decay of mechanics' institutes is usually quoted as a proof that the intellectual elevation of the labouring classes is hopeless. But it admits of doubt whether the result is not due more to an under than an over-estimate of the mechanic's capabilities. The mechanic who could relish fluxions, would not long find advantage in attending the showy and superficial lectures usually given at such institutions. A system better calculated to develop his capabilities would most probably meet with more success.

We shall not, however, delay longer by signalising the names of those who have contributed most to the improvement of astronomical instruments, but at once introduce the reader to the observatory itself. All observatories have a great family likeness; but, to be more special, we shall suppose that the observatory in question is the one erected, about twenty years ago, in Glasgow, in connexion with the University, and over which Professor Nichol presided with so much distinction. The handsome building, on the summit of the hill above Partick, owes its erection and completeness very much to the munificence of the merchants of Glasgow, who came forward with liberal donations. If you wish to see it in full operation, you must visit it by night. The transit-room is the principal one; and when you are ushered into it, you find that it is a large sombre apartment, its walls painted black, and many bright instruments faintly