Sub-series A.

Astronomy.—The revised study of the Solar System would bring in many problems no longer above the Boys' comprehension, but of which the arithmetical solution might, for the saving of time, be handed over to the Mathematical Department.

Geology, or more properly speaking Geonomy (Account of the Earth or Erdkunde).—The general scientific knowledge acquired by the Pupils being now sufficient for the purpose, the Zoology and Botany of the succesive Geological Epochs, as illustrated by fossil remains, could be brought in, either separately, or intermingled with the account of the respective formations, and of the ascertained or supposed successive mutations in the distribution of Sea and Laud, as well as of the consequent climatological changes of the Earth's surface. Care would be taken, here as elsewhere, not to burthen the memory with names and forms beyond those required for illustrating the most essential types in the great scheme of progressive existences. Special care would also be required in this particular branch of scientific research, not to excite unnecessarily the spirit of scepticism and controversy, which it has often been accused of engendering, and to make Geology, on the contrary, productive of devout astonishment and awe; unfolding as it does the immensities of time, as Astronomy unfolds the immensities of space.

In using the term Geonomy, or Account of the Earth, page 30 my object has been to give the Teacher free scope for showing the close connection between Geology, which describes the changes wrought in the crust of our Globe, and Physical Geography, which whilst it deals with the present condition of things resulting from those changes, also serves in conjunction with its inseparable ally Meteorology, to supply us with a knowledge of the perennial agencies by which they have been effected. Hence the expediency of interweaving these Sciences for mutual explanation and evidential support.