OF VESSELS, OCCASIONED BY LOCAL ATTRACTION. 
221 
count for the loss, while an actually existing and known cause is allowed to 
remain uncorrected and disregarded. 
That the remedy for this evil, which I have been so fortunate as to discover, 
is simple and universal, is, I believe, generally admitted ; indeed, after being 
submitted to trial by two of our most scientific officers from 57° south latitude 
to 80° north latitude, and having been found to be effective to the most ex- 
treme point, it is impossible that any doubt should remain on that head. 
It must be, therefore, that the error itself is disregarded, and it would con- 
sequently be rendering an essential service to the navy, when any loss is sus- 
tained from neglecting this necessary precaution, that it should be traced to 
its proper source ; and it is with this view that I have drawn together these 
few remarks. If I overrate the importance of the error or the value of the 
remedy, my apology must be the opinions which have been given on the sub- 
ject by many distinguished naval commanders, both English and foreign, and 
the high marks of approbation with which my investigations have been ac- 
knowledged by the Royal Society, and other learned societies of Europe. To 
which I may also add my anxiety, that where science can be brought to faci- 
litate the progress of navigation, and to contribute to its security, it.may not 
be allowed to be neglected in the British navy. 
