110 On the Natural Boundaries of Empires. 
The ocean affords an easy channel of communication be- 
tween England and France, but it does not combine in one 
Montpelier, May 13, 1828. 
Dear Sir—I have received your letter of the 1st inst. and 
with it a copy of your Essay. “ be = - 
* * * . * * * * 
On turning from the past to the future, speculation may 
be invited to the influence on those boundaries, that may 
result from new modifications of governments, and the oper- 
ations of art on the PCAs ree features of nature. The 
improvements in political science, more particularly the 
combination of the federal and representative principles, 
a 
now render mountains, rivers, lakes and seas, artificially 
passable, with a facility and celerity which bring distant re- 
ient exercise of power over an extended space. 
* * * *% * * 
With friendly respects, 
(Signed) James Maprson. 
Mr. Finch. 
8. Difference in the boundaries of savage or civilized ra- 
ces of men. 
A river is a boundary to a savage; a lake still more so; 
the ocean is impassable. His bark canoe is not fitted for 
engagements on the water. 
He reveres the mountains, and seldom attempts to pass 
them. 
His empire is always small, and bounded by the more 
minute physical obstacles on the surface of the earth. 
