Wanderings in South America, the North-West of the United States, and the Antilles, in the years 1812, 1816, 1820, and 1824. With original instructions for the perfect preservation of birds, &c. for cabinets of natural history / By Charles Waterton.

  • Waterton, Charles, 1782-1865.
Date:
1825
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Wanderings in South America, the North-West of the United States, and the Antilles, in the years 1812, 1816, 1820, and 1824. With original instructions for the perfect preservation of birds, &c. for cabinets of natural history / By Charles Waterton. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    Now when we reflect that the preserved sj)ecimens in our museums, and private collections, are always done upon a wrong principle, and generally by low and illiterate peojfle, whose daily bread depends upon the shortness of time in which they can get through their work; and whose opposition to the true way of preparing specimens, can only be surpassed by their obstinacy in adhering to the old method ; can we any longer wonder at their want of success ? or hope to see a single specimen produced that will be worth looking at ? With this I conclude, hoping that thou hast received some information, and occasionally had a smile upon thy countenance, while persusing these “ Wanderings and begging, at the same time, to add, that. Well I know thy penetration, Many a stain and blot will see. In the languid long narration. Of my sylvan errantry. For the pen, too oft was weary. In the wandering writer’s hand. As he roved through deep and dreary Forests, in a distant land. Show thy mercy, gentle reader. Let him not entreat in vain; It will be his strength’s best feeder, Should he ever go again. Fourth