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 civilisation.
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 allays that want and craving, which, as Sir J.
Herschel remarks, a man experiences although every corporeal sense
be fully satisfied. The excitement from the novelty of objects, and
the chance of success, stimulate him to increased activity.
Moreover, as a number of isolated facts soon become uninteresting,
the habit of comparison leads to generalisation. On the other hand,
as the traveller stays but a short time in each place, his
descriptions must generally consist of mere sketches, instead of
detailed observations. Hence arises, as I have found to my cost, a
constant tendency to fill up the wide gaps of knowledge by
inaccurate and superficial hypotheses.
But I have too deeply enjoyed the voyage, not to recommend any
naturalist, although he must not expect to be so fortunate in his
companions as I have been, to take all chances, and to start, on
travels by land if possible, if otherwise, on a long voyage.
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