372 



RESUME. 



Then might Brazil, pointing to the blossoming wilderness, the well 

 cultivated farm, the busy city, the glancing steamboat, and listening to 

 the hum of the voices of thousands of active and prosperous men, say, 

 with pride and truth : "Thus much have we done for the advancement 

 of civilization and the happiness of the human race." 



In making out this report, I have been guided by the letter and spirit 

 of my instructions, and have striven to present a clear and faithful picture 

 of the subjects indicated by them. These were, in brief terms, the 

 present condition of the country — its productions and resources — the 

 navigability of its streams — its capacities for trade and commerce — and 

 its future prospects. This must be my excuse for my meagre contribu- 

 tions to general science. 1 More, I fear, has been expected in this way 

 than has been done ; yet the expedition has collected some valuable 

 specimens in each of the kingdoms of natural history, and I hope to obtain 

 means and authority to have them properly described and illustrated. 



I have mentioned in various parts of my report the names of persons 

 who have assisted me by counsel or information. I shall close it with the 

 name of the last, the ablest, and the best. Whatever of interest and 

 value may be found in the report, is mainly attributable to the guiding 

 judgment and cheering heart of my friend and kinsman, M. F. Maury. 



