Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.3)

Oct. 1836. CONCLUSION. 607 The map of the world ceases to be a blank ; it becomes a picture full of the most varied and animated figures. Each part assumes its true dimensions : continents are not looked at in the hght of islands, or those islands considered as mere specks, -which are, in truth, larger than many kingdoms of Europe, Africa, or North and South America, are well- sounding names, and easily pronounced ; but it is not till having sailed for some weeks along small portions of their coasts that one is thoroughly convinced how large a portion of our immense world these names imply. From seeing the present state, it is impossible not to look forward with high expectation to the future progress of nearly an entire hemisphere. The march of improvement, consequent on the introduction of Christianity throughout the South Sea, probably stands by itself on the records of history. It is the more striking when we remember that only sixty years since, Cook, whose most excellent judgment none will dispute, could foresee no prospect of such change. Yet these changes have now been effected by the philan- thropic spirit of the British nation. In the same quarter of the globe Australia is rising, or indeed may be said to have risen, into a grand centre of civiUzation, which at some not very remote period, will rule as empress over the southern hemisphere. It is impossible for an Englishman to behold these distant colonies, without a high pride and satisfaction. To hoist the British flag, seems to draw with it as a certain consequence, wealth, prosperity, and civilization. In conclusion, it appears to me that nothing can be more improving to a young naturalist, than a journey in distant countries. It both sharpens, and partly Ukewise aUays that want and craving, which, as Sir J. Herschel* remarks, a man experiences although every corporeal sense is fully satisfied. The excitement from the novelty of objects, and the chance of success, stimulate him to increased activity. Moreover as * Discourse on the Study of Natural Philosophy.