We have seen the improvements in astronomy applied to correct the errors of geography, and, passing from the hands of the astronomer to those of the navigator, assisting to form an accurate delineation of the surface of the globe. But the relations which exist between geography and physical science in general still remained to be studied, and it was not till our own days that a traveller appeared qualified, by his ardour, his knowledge, and his talents, to enter upon so grand an undertaking. Alexander von Humboldt, the person to whom we allude, was born at Berlin, in 1769. He received his education at Göttingen and Frankfort on the Oder; he subsequently pursued his mineralogical studies at the celebrated school of Freiberg. He seems to have cultivated assiduously every branch of knowledge o but the ardour of learning naturally attached him to the pursuits that were at that time most in vogue. Chemistry and the phenomena of animal electricity chiefly attracted his attention. As he possessed an ample independent fortune, he was able to add the accomplishment of travel to that of secluded study. He visited England and Holland in company with G. Forster and Van Geuns. Italy and Switzerland he visited with Von Hafter and Freiesleben. The conversation of these men determined the predilection which young Humboldt already evinced for the stvuly of nature. In 1797 he went from Vienna with his brother William von Humboldt, a man of eminent learning and abilities, to Paris, where he formed an acquaintance with Aimé Bonpland, a young botanist of distinguished merit, with whom he concerted various plans of travel.