408 United States Exploring Expedition. 



The Andes were ascended both in Chili and Peru, and in the 

 latter, an ammonite was obtained at a height of sixteen thou- 

 sand feet. 



The collections at the National Gallery contain suites of speci- 

 mens from all the regions visited, including gems, and gold and 

 iron ores from Brazil, the copper and some of the silver ores of 

 Peru and Chili, besides others illustrating the general geological 

 structure of these countries. 



But our remarks have already extended to an unexpected 

 length. The facts enumerated, although but here and there 

 one from the mass which have been collected, are sufficient to 

 evince that the nation which has done honor to itself in sending 

 out an exploring expedition so liberally organized, will have no 

 reason to be disappointed in the results. European nations al- 

 ready appreciate it, and speak higher praise than has yet been 

 heard on this side of the waters. The advantages accruing to 

 commerce alone, from the large number of surveys made, reefs 

 discovered and laid down, unknown harbors examined, resources 

 of islands and countries investigated — and from the permanent 

 footing on which intercourse with the Pacific islands has been 

 placed by the settlement of long standing difficulties and the rati- 

 fication of treaties, and the impression produced by an armed 

 force, more than repay for expenditures. The expedition has 

 performed the duties of an ordinary squadron in the Pacific, and 

 has accomplished in this way many fold more in that ocean, than 

 any squadron that ever left our country ; and if the expenses of 

 keeping the vessels in commission are cancelled on this score, the 

 sum which remains for the extraordinary duties performed will 

 be but small. 



But while we render to those whose labors have obtained the 

 results of the expedition their full due of credit, we cannot forget 

 that there are others, and one in particular, whose zeal and un- 

 tiring exertions in planning, and urging forward to its completion 

 this enterprise, deserve more than a passing acknowledgment. 

 Mr. J. N. Reynolds was left behind, yet, though unrewarded for 

 his efforts by the pleasure of accompanying the expedition, and 

 adding to its laurels, his distinguished merits will not be forgot- 

 ten or disregarded by his countrymen. 



