as dangerous innovations all pursuits which were not immediately and distinctly connected with trade. Notwithstanding the disadvantages against which the society had to struggle, from this powerful combination, animated by political rancour, religious fears, and inveterate prejudices, its condition soon became more flourishing than the most sanguine hopes of its projectors had led them to expect. In a short time the funds of the institution amounted to a million florins, and a noble edifice was built for its use in one of the principal streets of Amsterdam, This building was opened for public instruction, with a suitable discourse by Professor Van Swinden, the first of November, 1788.
The title which this society has adopted is Felix Meritis, implying perhaps the happiness which results to the human species from the successful cultivation of science; and the number of its members is increased from forty to upwards of twelve hundred. The researches of this society are comprehended under five general heads. Physics, which embrace natural history, medicine,
