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 to the Custom, one of the Fellows appointed, to interpret to him, what Experiments were produc'd, and examin'd at that Meeting. But his Highness told them, that it was not necessary they should put themselves to that Trouble; for he well understood our Language, having been drawn to the Study of it, out of a desire of reading our Philosophical Books. From whence there may this Conclusion be made, that if ever our Native Tongue shall get any Ground in Europe, it must be by augmenting its experimental Treasure. Nor is it impossible, but as the Feminine Arts of Pleasure and Gallantry have spread some of our neigbouring [sic] Languages to such a vast Extent; so the English Tongue may also in Time be more enlarg'd, by being the Instrument of conveying to the World the Masculine Arts of Knowledge.

I now come to relate, what Incouragements this Design has receiv'd at home in its native Soil. And I will assure my Reader, that the Original of the Royal Society has found a general Approbation within our selves, and that the most prudent Men of all Professions and Interests, have shewn by their Respects to these hopeful Beginnings, that there is a Reverence due to the first Trials and Intentions, as well as to the last Accomplishment of generous Attempts.

Of our chief and most wealthy Merchants and Citizens, very many have assisted it with their Presence; and thereby have added the industrious, punctual, and active Genius of Men of Traffick,, to the quiet, sedentary, and reserv'd Temper of Men of Learning. They have contributed their Labours; they have help'd their Correspondence; they have employ'd Rh