Oct. 1836. 



CONCLUSION. 



607 



The map of the world ceases to be a blank ; it becomes a 

 picture full of the most varied and animated figures. Each 

 part assumes its true dimensions : continents are not looked 

 at in the light of islands, or those islands considered as mere 

 specks, which are, in truth, larger than many kingdoms of 

 Europe. Africa, or North and South America, are well- 

 sounding names, and easily pronounced ; but it is not till 

 having sailed for some weeks along small portions of their 

 coasts that one is thoroughly convinced how large a portion 

 of our immense world these names imply. 



From seeing the present state, it is impossible not to 

 look forward with high expectation to the future progress of 

 nearly an entire hemisphere. The march of improvement, 

 consequent on the introduction of Christianity throughout 

 the South Sea, probably stands by itself on the records of 

 history. It is the more striking when we remember that 

 only sixty years since. Cook, whose most excellent judgment 

 none will dispute, could foresee no prospect of such change. 

 Yet these changes have now been effected by the philan- 

 thropic spirit of the British nation. 



In the same quarter of the globe Australia is rising, or 

 indeed may be said to have risen, into a grand centre of 

 civilization, which at some not very remote period, will ru]e as 

 empress over the southern hemisphere. It is impossible 

 for an Englishman to behold these distant colonies, without 

 a high pride and satisfaction. To hoist the British flag, 

 seems to draw with it as a certain consequence, wealth, 

 prosperity, and civilization. 



In conclusion, it appears to me that nothing can be more 

 improving to a young naturalist, than a journey in distant 

 countries. It both sharpens, and partly likewise allays that 

 want and craving, which, as Sir J. Herschel* remarks, a man 

 experiences although every corporeal sense is fully satisfied. 

 The excitement from the novelty of objects, and the chance 

 of success, stimulate him to increased activity. Moreover as 



* Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy. 



