SOME REMAINS of ANTlQUriT. 215 



of their traditions, and languages, we hardly know any 

 tiling that is entitled to the name ot certainty. But, wjth 

 rerpedl to all thefe fubjedts, much may ftill be done, and 

 fomething may be done where we have leafl: expeded it. 

 Let us open the tombs of the ancient Americans. In 

 thefe dark abodes, the laft afyluras of man on this globe, 

 we may difcover materials that will enable us to throw 

 fome light upon the ancient hiftory of the Americrins. If 

 we are not fufficiently animated by the love of fcience, 

 let us remember, that in the tombs of the Mexi- 

 cans and Peruvians, the Spaniards have difcovered trea- 

 fures of gold, offilver, and of precious ftones ; and that 

 even in the tombs in Florida, valuable pearls are faid to 

 have been found. 1 think, there can be little doubt that 

 the opening of the North-American tumuli will reward 

 the labourers with valuable fpoils. 



I have taken up a good deal of your time ; more than 

 I contemplated when 1 undertook to give yon my fenti- 

 ments on the fubjeft of the tumular articles. 1 have been 

 extremely defirous to afford you fome amufement, and, 

 jfpofQble, fome information. 



I am, with the greateft refpe£t, 

 Reverend and Dear Sir, 

 Your Humble and Obedient Servant, 

 And Affedionate Friend, 



BENJAMIN SMITH BARTON- 

 To t/je Rev. Dr. Jcfepb Priejiley. 



E e 2 Bar$metricat 



