On American Gypsum^ 267 



Pennsylvanian, the information must be doubly grati- 

 fying. In this state, on its eastern border, the efficacy 

 of the Plaster was first proved, and promulgated. 

 Now, endless supplies, within reach of our northern 

 boundary, are to be obtained ; and safely brought to 

 us, even under present circumstances, at no formida- 

 ble expense ;* and in quantities amply sufficient not 

 only for our own ; but other states. To facilitate the 

 transportation even of this article, the canals and roads 

 necessary to communicate with the quarries ; would 

 be highly desirable and lucrative. But when, in addi- 

 tion, the other countless benefits we should derive 

 from them, are considered ; no doubt can remain, of 

 this being one of the greatest objects, to which the 

 public attention can be applied. Warning, as well as 

 encouraging, examples of attracting internal trade ; 

 and its materials for external commerce ; are held up 

 to us by a sister state. She spares no pains, and ne- 

 glects no opportunities, to take every advantage which 



♦ Although we, in this quarter of the state, may pay high for 

 plaster from the lakes; yet our case is only reversed. We change 

 circumstances, with those who were heretofore supplied from the 

 sea board. But when the war ceases, and plaster is again brought 

 by sea ; we shall derive a solid advantage, indirectly, by the sup- 

 plies afforded from the lakes, to the country accustomed to deal 

 with us. All their demand for the article here, will be at an end ; 

 and we shall obtain it the cheaper ; because there will be fewer 

 purchasers in the market. 



No impediments to our trade for this article, out of our territory, 

 can now be apprehended. Such impediments will be perceived to 

 be idle : it being ascertained} that we now have our supplies, within 

 our own power. R. P 



