148 Benjamin Franklin [771 
joy, to countries destitute of them in the remote 
parts of the globe.” This proposition being warmly 
adopted by the rest of the company, Mr. Dalrymple, 
then present, was induced to offer to undertake the 
command in such an expedition. 
On mature reflection, this scheme appears the most 
honorable to the national character of any which can 
be conceived, as it is grounded on the noblest princi- 
ple of benevolence. Good intentions are often frus- 
trated by letting them remain undigested; on this 
consideration, Mr. Dalrymple was induced to put the 
outlines on paper, which are now published, that by 
an early communication there may be a better oppor- 
tunity of collecting all the hints which can conduce 
to execute effectually the benevolent purpose of 
the expedition, in case it should meet with general 
approbation. 
On this scheme being shown to Dr. Franklin, he 
communicated his sentiments, by way of introduc- 
tion, to the following effect: 
“Britain is said to have produced originally no- 
thing but sloes. What vast advantages have been 
communicated to her by the fruits, seeds, roots, 
herbage, animals, and arts of other countries! We 
are, by their means, become a wealthy and a mighty 
nation, abounding in all good things. Does not some 
duty hence arise from us towards other countries still 
remaining in our former state? 
“Britain is now the first maritime power in the 
world. Her ships are innumerable; capable, by their