296 STEAM NAVIGATION ON THE 



and gratification of viewing new countries and 

 enjoying new scenes. 



Will it be urged that mankind are so much 

 the slaves of custom^ that they will not be 

 induced to change their course to smoother 

 seas and a more expeditious route ? that those 

 who have the means of availing themselves of 

 the advantages proposed^ will not accept them 

 because they have been accustomed to another 

 beaten track ? that the facilities for correspond- 

 ence will not be improved when so much time 

 can be gained ? We live in an age which 

 renders a reply to these questions unnecessary. 

 This is no picture of fancy ; it is founded on sound 

 calculations, and correct geographical data, and is 

 fully entitled to the consideration of her Majes- 

 ty^s government, the British public, and every 

 one interested in the rising colony of Australia. 



If India has such high claims on England 

 for the establishment of steam navigation 

 (which she undoubtedly has) notwithstanding 

 the innumerable obstacles to be overcome, 

 and the enormous expense required to effect 

 it, surely the western colonies of her Majesty^s 

 empire have some claim to a share of govern- 

 ment patronage, particularly when scarcely 

 any obstacle is to be encountered, and the 

 outlay required will doubtless yield a reward 

 for the investment. 



