In addition to the passive concurrence of sev¬ 
eral men of thinking minds, among” them a ven¬ 
erable member of the American Philosophical 
Society, in this neighborhood, 1 have been hon¬ 
ored with the offers of several more enterprising 
spirits to accompany me on the expedi ion 1 
propose; but as the conditions with regard to 
ray outfit by the world, are not yet complied 
with, I have not positively accepted of their 
services. I still hold my life pledged, however, 
for the general truth of my position, and devo¬ 
tion to the exploration. 1 calculate on the good 
offices of Great Britain and France, for they 
nurse and patronize the sciences with ardor. 
My vvife boasts her descent from the latter, and 
I trace mine from the former. From the Empe- 
lor of Russia, so well known as a patron of sci¬ 
entific enterprise, I flatter mvself with much 
support. 
I challenge any opposers of my doctrine, to 
shew as sound reasons why my theory is not 
correct, as I can shew why it is. 
I veier those who seek for truth to Rees’ Cy- 
clopfedia, an d any other hooks wherein th* 
Quadrupeds, fish, and phenomena of high lati¬ 
tudes are treated of; likewise those books that! 
treat of f enus, JITars, and Saturn —where they! 
will find many tests, that, if duly considered, 
must go to prove my position. 
In the Cyclopedia, under the heads Fishery, 
‘ rctlc >' Herring, Seal, and all other migrating 
“Sees, it is shewn that most or all of them retire 
annually beyond the icy circle during the win¬ 
ter, and return, increased in fat and numbers, 
m the spring; and, under the head Reindeer, it 
is Stated that this: anlm,,! ..11 I 
