Of almost equal importance anil neces
sity is the erection of light-houseaon the
coast of Florida. There is not a single
permanent light-house on that coast,
which is upwards of 300 miles in extent,
bordering the channel through which
passes the largest portion of the exports
and imports of the west. In consequence
of the want of these necessary lights,
frequent and disastrous losses occur by the
shipwreck of vessels.
Upon the western planters, farmers and
merchants theso losses indirectly fall, be
cause both their products and their sup
plies necessarily have to pass this dan
gerous channel, and hence ihe cost of in
surance on both vessels and cargo are now
greatly increased by the difficulty and
danger of the navigation.
Competing or rival emporiums and
markets for an extensive country benefit
the producer, by presenting a choice of
markets, and stimulate tho merchant to
hold out tho strongest inducements to
command trade by the best attentions to
business, and the most favorable prices.
The great thoroughfare of the Missis
sippi valley, having now only New Or
leans as a prominent, accessible empori
um and shipping point, the commercial
interests of the country require that the
Mississippi fiver should be connected
with the lakes ; nnd thence with the east
em cities by ihe best channels of water
j communication for tho transportation of
heavy freight, travel, &c.
This connection with the lakes by a
steam-ship canal, as proposed .by Lieut.
