If we take a retrospective view of the world, for some centuries back, we shall find the knowledge of the most scientific nations, bounded by a circumference of two or three thousand miles. At length a few enterprising individuals, aided by their governments, made extensive discoveries:――A Columbus discovered the vast continent of America; and subsequent navigators discovered the extensive countries of New-Holland, New-Zealand, and numerous islands in the Pacific ocean and South sea. All of these now disclose to us, that what was formerly believed to constitute the whole habitable world, is but a spot, one little corner, in the parts known at this day. Even yet, a vast portion of our globe remains unexplored. Why then should we contribute nothing towards the attainment of the grand pursuit of nations? We, who are destined, I hope, one day to stand as the first nation under the sun――Why should we fold our arms and sit inactive, while that little spot Great Britain, is making such efforts to explore those regions? It would not be an unwise policy, for the American government to foster and encourage such noble workings of genius. It can in no way be inconsistent with the present policy of our government, that an expedition should be fitted out to explore the polar regions; but, on the contrary, it would bespeak a spirit of liberality, and a desire to promote scientific enterprize. It is neither against the constitution nor laws of our country; we are now at peace with the world; taxes are comparatively trifling; the situation of our country at present affords a most favourable opportunity for the accomplishment of the undertaking. It is one of such importance too, as will justify the use of money and men; while the honour of the discovery of a New World would be its reward. I apprehend that we only lack confidence in our own abilities, to perfect and explain many things not dreamed of by the ancient philosophers. We are inclined rather to undervalue our own efforts; and, like our former opinions on manufacturing subjects, think we can never appear to advantage, unless dressed in a coat of foreign manufacture. It appears to savour of the doctrine, that no new opinion or proposition can merit attention, or be adopted, unless it come from a European source. Had the proposition of concentric spheres, or a hollow globe, been made by an English or French philosopher, instead of a native of the United States, I very much question, whether so large a share of ridicule would have been attached to its author and adherents.