[91] Attempts have been made at different periods by the Russians to open up a trade with Japan; and, indeed, one purpose of the voyage which Captain Krusenstern undertook, was to conciliate the emperor or government of that island. No one, who is at all acquainted with the history of the people, will be surprised to learn that the Japanese did not think themselves honoured by the embassy; that they even refused the presents which had been carried out, and would not concede the favour of an alliance which was courted. The result of the whole, in fact, was rather a loss than a gain, as a permission which had been previously given to visit Nangasaky was withdrawn. Thus, says K., "all communication is now at an end between Japan and Russia, unless some great change should take place in the ministry of Jeddo, or, indeed, in the government itself, and this is perhaps not to be expected." We are told, however, in a note, that some revolution is understood actually to have taken place after this visit, and that too in consequence of this dismissal of the Russian embassy. This is said on the authority of a Lieutenant Chwostoff, who heard of it from the Japanese, when he visited the northern coast of Jesso in 1806 and 1807. But as no particulars are mentioned, and as, indeed, the thing is somewhat unlikely, one may be allowed to call in question the truth of the report. The Russians then, like, the Spaniards, Portugueze, English, and Americans, have utterly failed in establishing any commercial intercourse with Japan; and the Dutch alone, of any of the European nations, have continued, by virtue of their _bowing propensities_, &c., to profit by a direct connection with it.--E. SECTION VIII. Plan of our future Proceedings.--Course to the Southward, alone the Coast of Kamtschatka.--Cape Lopatka.--Pass the Islands Shoomska and Paramousir.-- Driven to the Eastward of the Kuriles.--Singular Situation with respect to the pretended Discoveries of former Navigators.--Fruitless Attempts to reach the Islands North of Japan.--Geographical Conclusions.--View of the Coast of Japan.--Run along the East Side.--Pass two Japanese Vessels.-- Driven off the Coast by contrary Winds.--Extraordinary Effect of Currents.--Steer for the Bashees.--Pass large Quantities of Pumice Stone.-- Discover Sulphur Island.--Pass the Pratas.--Isles of Lema, and Ladrone Island.--Chinese Pilot taken on board the Resolution.--Journals of the Officers and Men secured.[92]