Text-Book, embracing the foundations of human learning: such, it is presumed, will be found in the following pages.

When the author compiled his CLASS-BOOK, he was actuated by similar principles; and he believes it is generally felt, that great advantages have accrued to young persons, from the perusal of that work.-Every tutor must be sensible, however, that the Class-Book, as a means of enlarging the sphere of knowledge, is rather to be considered as a commentary, than as a key to the temple of Science itself. The CLASSBook has its superior uses; but, through its medium, the building can only be viewed at a distance; the object, then, in the present work, is to lead the young student up the steps of the portico, open the doors to him, and usher him into that superstructure, which raises man above his fellows, and places him in contact with the good and the illustrious of his species!

Without interfering with particular branches of education, all the parts of this work may be rendered familiar within two years: one paragraph may be committed to memory every day. When this task has been finished, what an accession of varied knowledge will have fallen to the lot of the pupil! How stored, will be his mind, with interesting ideas for contemplation and conversation! and how comparatively blank must be the minds of others, who have

not enjoyed the same advantages !-Yet, particular studies, at the same time, need not be neglected! This book may, indeed, be collateral in labour; although it will prove primary in effect!-But the author may be said to be sanguine; he, therefore, forbears to say all that his hopes prompt him to; and leaves his book to speak for itself, and prove its worth, by its actual effects on the rising generation. D. B.

N. B. The Solar System should face the Title; and the
Map of the World, the Article Geography, at Page 107.

THE

UNIVERSAL PRECEPTOR;

OR,

GRAMMAR

OF

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE.

I. Introductory Particulars.

1. KNOWLEDGE is either necessary and useful, or ornamental and luxurious.

It distinguishes civilized from savage life. Its cultivation in youth promotes virtue, by creating habits of mental discipline; and by inculcating a sense of moral obligation.

Knowledge is, therefore, the best foundation of happiness.

2. Necessary KNOWLEDGE is that which simply provides man with food; and with the means of sustaining life.

3. Useful KNOWLEDGE is that which teaches the arts of agriculture, clothing, building, restoring health, preserving social order, maintaining national independence, and rendering the produce of all climates subservient to the wants of

our own.

4. Ornamental KNOWLEDGE relates to subjects of taste; as drawing, painting, poetry, grammar, geometry, eloquence, history, music, dancing, dramatic representation, and the living languages.