and solicited the powerful concurrence of the Royal Society in favor
of the labors then already undertaken by a learned association in
Germany, and which, radiating at once from several great scientific
central points in Europe, might lead progressively to the more
precise knowledge of the laws of nature."

Mr. Adams then proceeds to state the subsequent proceedings of the Royal
Society, and the measures the British government had taken to carry into
effect the views of that society, earnestly recommending the compliance
with the request of the American Philosophical Society, and adds:

"The committee would hail, with feelings of hope and encouragement,
the virtual alliance of great and mighty nations for this union of
efforts in the promotion of the cause of science. Long enough have
the leagues and federations between the potentates of the earth been
confined to alliances, offensive and defensive, to promote purposes
of mutual hatred and hostility. It is refreshing to the friends of
humanity to witness the rise and progress of a spirit of common and
concerted inquiry into the secrets of material nature, the results
of which not only go to accumulate the mass of human knowledge, but
to harmonize in a community of enjoyments the varied tribes of man
throughout the habitable globe. The invitation to participate in
these labors, and to acquire the credit and reputation of having
contributed to the beneficial results which may confidently be
expected from them, is itself creditable to the character of our own
country."

In conclusion, the committee recommend the adoption of a resolution,
which they report, appropriating twenty thousand dollars for the
establishment of five several stations for making observations on
terrestrial magnetism and meteorology, conformably to the invitation of
the Royal Society of Great Britain to the American Philosophical Society
of Philadelphia.

In July, 1840, at the closing of the congressional session, Mr. Adams
thus expressed his opinion of the state of public affairs: "The late
session of Congress has been painful to me beyond all former experience,
by the demonstration it has given of degenerating institutions. Parties
are falling into profligate factions. I have seen this before; but the
worst symptom now is the change in the manners of the people. The
continuance of the present administration will, if