Book Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1776 edition. Excerpt: ... T O JOSEPH BANKS, Esq; Dear Sir, IThink myself so much indebted to you, for making me the vehicle for conveying to the public the rich discovery of your last voyage, that I cannot dispense with this address the usual tribute on such occasions. You took from me all temptation of envying your superior good fortune, by the liberal declaration you made that the Hebrides were my ground, and yourself, as you pleasantly expressed it, but an interloper. May I meet with such, in all my adventures 1" Without lessening your merit, let me fay that no one has less reason to be sparing of his stores of knowlege. Few.possefs so large a mare: you enjoy it without ostentation; and with a facility of communication, the result of natural endowments joined with an immensity of observation, collected in parts of the world, before, either of doubtful existence, or totally unknown. You have enriched yourself with the treasures of the globe, by a circumnavigation, founded on the most liberal and scientific principles. The The xvlth century received lustre from the numbers of generous volunteers of rank and fortune, who distinguishing themselves by the contempt of riches, ease, and. Luxury, made the most hazardous voyages, . like yourself, animated by the love of true glory.. In reward, the name of Banks will ever exist with* those of Clifford, Raleigh and Willughby, on the rolls of fame, celebrated instances of great and enterprizing spirits: . and the arSlic Solander must remain a fine proof that no climate can prevent the feeds of knowlege from vegetating in the breast of innate abilityi You have had justly a full triumph decreed to you by your country. May your laurels for ever remain unblighted! and if she has deigned to twine for me a. ciyic wreat