Page:Transactions of the Geological Society, 1st series, vol. 1.djvu/6

 vi The rapid and unexpected augmentation in number, which the Society has experienced, is the most satisfactory proof of the extended and increasing interest which is felt in geological studies; and the continued support which it has obtained, in the accession of new and highly respectable Members, is the best testimony in favour of its pursuits, and of the principles upon which it is founded.

It is unnecessary to dwell on the advantages, which may be derived from individuals acting in combination for the advancement of particular departments of science. It may indeed be asserted that there is no object of research in which this co-operation is more necessary than in Geology. In this science, less perhaps has been done, and more that is important remains to be ascertained by future inquirers, than in any other branch of natural knowledge; while the variety of attainments, and the degree of leisure requisite for the prosecution of it, can seldom fall to the share of one individual. But as the attention of different Members of the Society has been long occupied in the investigation of several of the particular objects which claim the notice of the Geologist, it was reasonable to hope, that their combined exertions would be productive of more immediate and important additions to the general stock of geological knowledge, than could probably be derived from the unassisted labours of any one observer, whatever might be his zeal or opportunities. Again, the remarks which are made by separate inquirers, however interesting in themselves, are less valuable from being unconnected; and are, moreover, in this state not infrequently lost to the public: but could such individuals be induced to record