to the interior.

We have several recent occurrences to lament, where the most enterprising
efforts have failed, through the inherent jealousies of the natives, and
their ferocious character; and, therefore, it is expedient to commence
experiments in the maritime countries, as the most eligible points from
whence operative influence is to make its progress, civilization display
itself among the inhabitants, and a facility of intercourse be attained
with the interior. So long as this powerful barrier remains in its present
condition, it will continue unexplored; and our intercourse with its more
improved tribes must remain obscured, by the forcible opposition of the
frontier; and these immense regions, with their abundant natural resources,
continue unknown to the civilized world. The inhabitants of the sea coast
are always more fierce and savage than those more remote and insular: all
travellers and voyagers, who have visited mankind in their barbarous state,
must substantiate this fact: and the history of nations and states clearly
demonstrates, that the never-failing influence of commerce and agriculture
united, has emanated from the frontiers, and progressively spread their
blessings into the interior countries. View our own now envied greatness,
and the condition in which our forefathers lived, absorbed in idolatry and
ignorance, and it will unquestionably appear, that our exalted state of
being has arisen from the introduction of the civilized arts of life, the
commerce which our local situation has invited to our shores, and our
agricultural industry.

Within the district now in contemplation, flows the river of _Senegal_,
with its valuable _gum trade_; the _Gambia_, abounding with innumerable
objects of commerce, such as indigo, and a great variety of plants for
staining, of peculiar properties, timber, wax, ivory, &c.; _the Rio Grande,
Rio Noonez, Rio Pongo,_ &c. all greatly productive, and their borders
inhabited by the Jolliffs, the Foollahs, the Susees, the Mandingos, and
other inferior nations, and communicating, as is now generally believed,
with the river Niger, which introduces us to the interior of this great
continent; the whole presenting an animating prospect to the distinguished
enterprise of our country.

That these advantages should be neglected, is, as I have before said,
subject of deep regret, and are the objects which I would entreat my
countrymen to contemplate, as the most eligible to attain