Such is an outline of our subject.  The science itself is by no means systematized.  Many things are taken for granted which may yet be disproved.  If, says Humboldt, we perceive a want of connection in the phenomena of certain sciences, we may anticipate the revelation of new facts, whose importance will probably be commensurate with the attention directed to other branches of study.  What we want is a larger class of observers, and not only those who are professional persons, but those who would commune with Nature, and seek to invigorate their minds by the acquisition of new ideas, and a recourse to rich and pure sources of enjoyment.

But more than this.  It is a requirement of the present age, says the same authority, that there should be an equal appreciation of all branches of mathematical and physical science; for the material wealth and the growing prosperity of nations are principally based upon a more enlightened employment of the products and forces of Nature.

Much attention has of late years been paid to this subject.  Many distinguished men in Europe have connected their great reputations indissolubly with it, and it is absolutely true that more persons are engaged in a common effort to promote this science than any other of our time.  In Paris there is a large and flourishing society where the most brilliant of its savans combine their efforts.  In London, that which was established in 1850 has met with remarkable success, and a most unexpected crowd of supporters.  The finest instruments, the most accurate observations, and entire uniformity of purpose have been the result.  In Germany, equal zeal prevails among its naturalists.  There are more than eight hundred stations throughout the world where regular observations are made, and upwards of three hundred and sixty of them are in the United States.  The Smithsonian Institution has been also a wise patron of this science, by its numerous publications, its lucid directions for observing meteorological changes, and the bestowal of standard instruments in large numbers to efficient and well-placed observers.  By a recent arrangement, a portion of this work is to be performed by the Patent Office.

Observation, and accuracy in observation, are the foundation of this science.  The results are compared to the leaves of a book, which will some day be arranged and bound together in one volume.  The instruments in use are delicate, ingenious, and indispensable.  Their history, uses, and importance would be topic enough for a separate article.

While at the first view Meteorology may appear to occupy but a limited sphere, upon a closer examination it will be found to embrace almost all the sciences, and to be commensurate with Nature itself.  It is continually influencing us, by its agencies appealing to our senses, ministering to our wants, and governing our conduct.