14 
If, in order to solve this problem, we were to consider only 
the positive distance that separates the extreme points of these 
navigations, only about 1000 miles would be gained in the lat¬ 
ter case by following the course through the Isthmus in pre¬ 
ference to that at present adopted round the Cape of Good 
Hope; but if, on the one hand, we take into consideration the 
difficulties and dangers to be encountered in this navigation, 
and on the other the advantages which might be derived from 
making a halt half way, in a country undoubtedly destined by 
its natural wealth to the highest future prosperity, as well as 
the additional and incalculable advantage of being enabled to 
estimate beforehand the probable length of the voyage, it can¬ 
not be doubted for an instant that the course through the Isth¬ 
mus ought at all times to be preferred. This opinion, which 
may now appear doubtful, will certainly cease to be so on that 
day, probably not far distant, when the progress of mechani¬ 
cal science will enable the mariner to disregard altogether the 
uncertainty of the wind, and when that route will be deemed 
the best which offers the safest navigation. 
The American isthmus extends from the Gulf of Darien, 
where it is united to South America, as far as Tehuantepec, 
where North America may be said to commence. Different 
parts of this isthmus have appeared to offer advantages in their 
topographical form, and have invited attention to their fitness 
for the desired communication. It was however soon observed 
that only three of these localities were worthy of consideration; 
namely, those which from the principal towns in their territory 
are designated by way of distinction, isthmus of Panama, of 
Nicaragua, and of Tehuantepec. 
In respect to the first of these named places the distance 
between the two oceans is only 41 miles. It is impossible 
therefore to examine the map of the American isthmus with¬ 
out being inclined to consider this point as the most eligible. 
The distance that divides the two seas is greater at Nicaragua, 
namely 93 miles, but being intersected by a lake of vast dimen¬ 
sions, this point would also appear to offer considerable advan¬ 
tages. Lastly, the territory of Tehuantepec, forming a conti¬ 
nued line of 136 miles is that which upon a superficial exami- 
