Genre:

Introduction; Short Fiction

Subjects:

Endeavour, Mathematics, Reasoning, Religion

    Reflects on the dangers of idleness, and recommends that readers 'cultivate the talents with which God has entrusted them' and avail themselves of 'the ample opportunities around them, for adding constantly to their stock of learning and knowledge'. Considers history and mathematics to be particularly suitable subjects for study: 'What rich stores of science invite their attention! [...] How greatly may their mental powers be enlarged by mathematical pursuits!'. (173)