§4 CANAL. 



The principal signs of taverns are descriptive 

 of the genius and feelings of a people. In this 

 country, the bald eagle, the symbol of national 

 glory — the implements and products of agricul- 

 ture, the signs of national wealth — and masonic 

 figures, the emblems of national charity, adorn 

 the inns. Sometimes you meet with a whale, a 

 lion, or a horse — but where do you not see 

 unmeaning and absurd exhibitions ? 



The weather is extremely hot : so much so, 

 that I can hardly think or write. A man gene- 

 rally observes through the medium of his feelings. 

 When you are overwhelmed with fatigue, oppres- 

 sed with heat, or overpowered with cold, how 

 can you see accurately, or describe justly ? Is 

 not this the true kev to most of the nonsense and 

 fable of travellers ? 



LETTER XXI. 



My Dear Sir, 



In attempting to describe the great water com- 

 munications of this region, I am sensible that I 

 have undertaken a task which far transcends my 

 faculties. An elegant poet has truly said " None 

 but a Phidias should attempt a Jove.' But as 

 you have considered my letters with kindness, i 



