140 CORRESPONDENCE. 



investigation of the languages, as well as the manners and customs, 

 and other characteristics of man, in every situation in which he is 

 found on the globe. If there is, as all admit, any utility in study- 

 ing man, then it is quite evident that we must study his distin- 

 guishing characteristic, speech; the great instrument of intercourse 

 and communication between the numerous members of the human 

 family. 



In addition to these general views of the advancement of philo- 

 logy, I might refer you to particular subjects in which a knowledge 

 of languages is of incalculable value. The promoting of commer- 

 cial and social intercourse would be greatly facilitated by it ; but, 

 above all, we should be enabled to disseminate among the unen- 

 lightened nations of the world the benefits of science and the arts, 

 the blessings of a better organization of society and government, a 

 higher system of morals, and a purer religion, than they now 

 possess. 



I am, sir, 



Your most obedient and humble servant, 



JNO. PICKERING 



J. N. REYNOLDS, Esq. 

 New York. 



