XXV1I1 
INTKODUCTION. 
I do not affirm this, lie adds, “ but regard it as 
a groundless notion.” 
Hence, the only remaining reason usually 
given for their extinction, is the interception of 
their supplies by the setting down of the polar 
ice. Admitting the truth of the sudden impri¬ 
sonment of the colonists, by the spreading of an 
icy zone along their coasts, the question of their 
destruction from this cause is purely conjectural. 
It goes on the supposition that they could not 
exist in this severe region, without assistance 
from the parent country, which is any thing but 
proof, since the Esquimaux are known to exist, if 
not thrive, on their own resources only, on the 
very sqmc coast. 
It is not only evident, however, that the proofs 
of the depopulation of the colonies, at the time of 
their separation from the rest of the world, are 
decidedly defective and negative; but, on the 
contrary, as Crantz declares, “ it is certain some 
traces of them were perceived long after this.” 
Thus, about the year 1530, Bishop Amund of 
Skalholt in Iceland, is said to have been driven 
