XXXV111 
MEMOIR OF 
but observed, that there were several considerations 
which should have their weight before determining 
to enter upon an affair of so much importance. Vexed 
that his friend would not enter into his views, Wilson 
expressed his scorn of the prudential maxims with which 
he was assailed, by styling them the maxims of a cold , 
calculating , contemptible philosophy. Such was the encou- 
ragement he met with from these, his “ guides, philoso- 
phers, and friends,” to embark on his toilsome and perilous 
undertaking, who seem never to have anticipated, that 
what they recommended as a relaxation would thus become 
the sole object of his pursuit : and such, as the event 
proved, was the erroneous estimate they formed of what 
might, or might not be achieved, as is always the case 
when men of mediocrity, calculating by what they them- 
selves are able to perform, venture to estimate the powers, 
or direct the efforts of men of genius. 
In October, 1804, Wilson, accompanied by two friends, 
set out on a pedestrian journey to the far-famed Falls 
of Niagara. Arrived upon its banks, he gazed upon the 
wild and wondrous scene with an enthusiasm bordering 
upon distraction ; and ever after declared, that no language 
was forcible enough to convey an adequate idea of that 
magnificent cataract. The expedition having been com- 
menced too late in the season, our travellers were overtaken 
on their return by winter, and compelled to struggle on 
a considerable part of the way through snow midleg deep. 
One of his companions remained with his friends on the 
Cayuga lake ; the other availed himself of a more agree- 
able mode of travelling ; but the hardy pride of Wilson 
would not permit him to be overcome by fatigue or 
difficulties. He held on his way, refusing to be relieved 
of his gun and baggage, and reached his home in the 
beginning of December, having been absent fifty-nine 
days, and having in that time traversed 1257 miles, of 
which he walked 47 the last day. 
