144 On the North-west Passage. 
very little doubt can, in my opinion, be entertained of a con- 
tinued sea, in or about that line of direction. The existence 
whalebone we found in Esquimaux coves, may be con- 
and there are good harbours at convenient distances. 
entertain indeed, sanguine hopes that the skill and exertions 
of my friend Capt. Parry will soon render this question no 
longer problematical.”’ 
decide this import geographical question; three parties by 
his success. The recent return of Capt. Lyon militates not 
against the probable success of his former commander. 
The recent seale of rewards offered by the British govern- 
ment may induce individuals engaged in the fisheries to haz- 
ard its accomplishment. 
Ist. To the first ship belonging to any of his majesty’s sub- 
jects, or to his majesty, that shall proceed to the longitude of - 
110° west, or tothe mouth of Hearne’s or Copper-Mine river, 
by sailing within the arctic circle, £5000; to 130° west, or to 
the whale island of Mackenzie, £10,000; to 150 west by sail- 
ing westward within the arctic circle £15,000; to the Pacific 
ovean, by a north-west passage £20,000. ; 
