CH. VIII] 
Pet 
67 
tempting to achieve the north-east passage in such frail 
vessels is worthy of admiration, for they were well 
aware of the dangers and obstacles. 
The moral effect of our earliest Arctic voyages was 
far-reaching and enduring. They excited a spirit of 
emulation in our seamen, and aroused a desire for honour- 
able distinction in northern enterprise and discovery which 
was deep and lasting. The immediate and practical effect 
was the opening of a lucrative trade with Russia. 
