These chapters are a contribution towards the exposition and just appreciation of Stoicism — which, whatever its defects, was a system of lofty principles, illustrated in the lives Of many noble men. The subject has perennial fascination; and there are not wanting signs that it appeals with special attractiveness to cultured minds at the present day. It has both speculative and practical value; its analysis of human nature and its theory of knowledge, no less than its ethical teaching, giving insight into the problems Of the universe and the right mode of guiding life. As an important stage in the march of philosophical thought, and as a luminous chapter in the history Of natural theology, it solicits our attention, and will repay our study.