PREFACE. ix 
lines of magnetic variation, in the seas around that immense 
continent. 
Availing myself therefore, on the present occasion, of assist- 
ance like this, it is impossible that I can present myself before 
the Public, without expressing how deeply and gratefully sensible 
I am of the honour and advantage which I derive from the 
labours of those Gentlemen ; for Mr. Edwards has kindly per- 
mitted me to incorporate, as occasion offered, the whole of his 
narrative into different parts of my work ; and Major Rennell, 
with equal good will, allows me not only to embellish and 
elucidate my Travels, with the Maps beforementioned, but also 
to subjoin his Geographical Illustrations entire. 
Thus aided and encouraged, I should deliver this volume to 
the world, with that confidence of a favourable reception, which 
no merits of my own could authorize me to claim ; were I not 
apprehensive that expectations have been formed, by some of my 
subscribers, of discoveries to be unfolded, which I have not 
made, and of wonders to be related, of which I am utterly igno- 
rant. There is danger that those who feel a disappointment of 
this nature, finding less to astonish and amuse in my book, than 
they had promised to themselves beforehand, will not even allow 
me the little merit which I really possess. Painful as this cir- 
cumstance may prove to my feelings, I shall console myself 
under it, if the distinguished persons, under whose auspices I 
