XXI.—CONCLUDING REMARKS.
Reading edition
The accomplishment of ærial navigation, then, is within reach; its practicability can no longer be denied. It will be one of the most glorious and fruitful conquests, and of the highest value and importance to civilized nations. But all inventions, and particularly an undertaking of such gigantic nature, require pecuniary assistance. This should not, in our age of progress, be lacking for a single moment; because, if for no other reason, the first promoters of it will reap such great financial benefits therefrom as must be beyond their calculation. Singer, Howe, Colt, McCormick, and hundreds of others, all, with thousands of friends so immensely wealthy, bear out this assertion. Let not this enlightened age look upon a great invention as was done in Robert Fulton's time, when he proposed the steamship to Napoleon in 1801. The plan was laid before a scientific commission, and these learned men reported it as "visionary" and impracticable. Such was the reception which steam navigation, that has achieved such immense results, first received at the hands of philosophy and capital; but France lost thereby, indirectly, the control of Europe, and Napoleon his crown; while another nation—America—more wise, ten years later commenced to reap the benefits emanating from Fulton's genius.
Means, then, being necessary for the accomplishment of this great object, let them be forthcoming at once, that California may enjoy the honor and the first fruits of this great invention.
In conclusion, let me thank you for the kind attention you have bestowed upon a weak exponent of a great subject.