VOYAGE TO GREENLAND. 
25 
try the practical utility of my gun and other ap- 
paratus, which are intended to promote and ensure 
success in the whale-fishery, and to afford assist- 
ance, in the time of danger, to those who are pro- 
secuting that service. I only ask for a fair and 
IMPARTIAL trial, to judge whether the adaptation 
of my inventions to their several intentions, will 
confirm their utility by practical examples of success, 
(which I expect that the inveteracy of prejudice 
cannot withstand,) or whether they will require any 
alteration or improvement to render them effectual. 
It is now proper for me to state, that you have been 
selected, as, this being your first voyage in the rank 
of harpooner, there is less liability of your being 
influenced by prejudice, or by an obstinate ad- 
herence to old customs. 
“ I wish you to keep in mind, that my intention 
is to do an essential public benefit ; and in its opera- 
tion, to obtain advantage to the owners of the ship 
who give you employment ; to your captain who 
promoted you to the situation of harpooner ; to 
your companions, who are deeply interested in the 
success of your boat ; and lastly, to yourself, not 
only from the rewards you may acquire from the 
use of the gun-harpoon, but the credit you will 
derive in being the first man to establish its utility. 
“ Let these considerations animate your zeal ; 
let it be ever foremost in your thoughts, that the 
success of the new system depends upon your own 
exertions, your collected conduct in the moment of 
use, and your ability when it is applied ; and let 
