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not dispirited at the difficulties which present, or the obstacles you are to encounter. Let them serve rather as a spur to your industry. They will not stand in the way of men who are determined to surmount all opposition in their course. Regard them as left by others for you to master. Was there no difficulty remaining, you would have less scope for a genius of investigation; less honour in being barely followers of others. Both science and honour offer one fate to their votaries. They reward the courage of the brave and of the steady, and repell the faint hearted and irresolute. You have an ample field before you to cultivate. Inspired by a love of science, your diligent inquiry into natural causes and effects must produce discoveries; and these discoveries prompt you with fresh alacrity to new researches; an employment as delightful and honourable as it is advantageous.
Order requires that I should now address myself in particular
To The Trustees of The College,
To you Honoured Sir,[1] and you Gentlemen who are trustees of this seminary, the respected patrons of literature, who alone can give force and stability to undertakings of such moment as this, I beg leave to return my warmest acknow-
- ↑ The governor of Pennsylvania, who is president of the trustees.
