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XVII. On the Discovery of a North-west magnetic Pole. By 
Colonel MacponaLp*. 
Summerland-place, Exeter, July 12. 
Mocu useful discussion has arisen in consequence of the dis- 
sertations on the interesting science of Magnetism and Varia- 
tion, inserted in your Numbers of December and January+: 
and in all instances, the reasoning and suggestions alluded to have 
experienced the marked approbation of characters eminent for 
their knowledge of asubject rendered extremely prominent by the 
recent brilliant discovery of a North-west Magnetic Pole. 
The above-mentioned papers on magnetic variation having 
been published previously to the appearance of the valuable works 
of Captain Parry and of Mr. Fisher, some further thoughts neces- 
sarily arise from a due consideration of statements and opinions 
therein contained; and such remarks as are offered are made 
with the best of views, viz. that of calling the attention of men 
who have equally the power and inclination to promote objects of 
public utility. 
Vovages of discovery, and travels, are nationally undertaken on 
three principles, at once creditable, legitimate, and laudable.’ On 
the first, the Deity is honoured by the humble but hazardous 
efforts of his creatures, to discover the extent of his wonderful 
works here on earth, and the nature of uneducated man under the 
’ varying aspect of climate and seasons: and that too with the no- 
ble ultimate view of ameliorating his condition, by conferring the 
benefits of knowledge, and the blessings of Religion. On the se- 
cond principle, the discoveries of enterprising mariners aud tra- 
vellers can alone (as in the present instance) enable us to advance 
certain sciences which require experiments of a delicate descrip- 
tion to be made, and observations of an accurate nature to be 
taken, in opposite and unfrequented paths of the world. The 
third principle, sanctioning distant research by sea and land, or 
that of forwarding the interest of commerce and arts, may not 
be less recommendable; as thereby civilization and the comforts 
of life are materially benefited, and human happiness conse- 
quently increased. 
If the two voyages of discovery in search of a North-west pas- 
sage into the North Pacific, or Eastern Ocean, should not attain 
that object, they will prove of incalculable value in ultimately es- 
tablishing, on sure and fixed scientific principles, the wonderful 
rule, or rationale of the variation of the Magnetic Needle; pro- 
vided we avail ourselves skilfully of the means furnished by the 
daring and so far successful enterprise of men of consummate 
* From the Gentleman's Magazine for July 1821. 
+ See Phil. Mag. for Mebruary 1821. 
: N 2 courage 
