The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920, 1875-02-27

Our Washington correspondent sends u
some interesting intelligence in reference to
the opinions entertained in Washington about
the proposed expeditions to the North Pole
which are exciting so much attention in Ger.
many and England. Bismarck and DisraeI
seem to be striving for precedence in
solving the problem that surrounds that vast
icebound region of the north. Americans,
who really feel that Americans should dis.
cover America, cannot be expected to look on
this strife in silence. The expectation that
this administration would send out an expedi-
ton is not confirmed by our correspondence.
Secretary Robson informs us that the con.
sent of Congress would be necessary to such
an expedition, that the cost would be com.
paratively small, and that the Navy Depart
ment could furnish all the material required.
There is already at the Washington Navy
Yard vessel fit for Arctic service and
he thinks that one hundred and fifty thousand
dollars would pay the whole cost. The Sec
rotary is convinced that no expedition can be
successful that is not under naval control
He believes that if Captain Hall had been
simply an explorer and if his ship had
been managed by naval officer he could
have finished his proposed work. He
promised to assist any movement on the part
of our Geographical Society or our citizens
gen orally to induce Congress to give the neces-
sary authority to enable us to send our flag,
if possible to the Pole.
Admiral Porter addresses us On interest
ing letter on the subject, showing his hearty
sympathy with the proposed explorations. The
opinions Of this illustrious officer, properly at
the head of our navy, man of genius and
great naval experience and an authority
upon all such questions, should be
listened to with great attention. He
believes that no vessel could succeed that was
not built for the purpose, that steam power
is indispensable, that strict naval discipline
should be maintained, and that the
expedition should be under the com.
mand of an officer and seamen from
the navy. He believes also that the ex.
go in company, where they would have better
chances of succeeding, and that the spirit of
emulation should be excited. The dangers
OF Arctic investigation are, in his opinion,
less than is commonly supposed. He alludes
to the fact that has often been observed, that
men who have once been to the Arctic regions
are always willing to venture again.
We are inclined to agree with the opinion
of the Admiral that there should be naval SUI
pervision in expeditions Of this char
acter. At the same time, there
should also be an important posi-
ton assigned to such men as DR.. Hayes,
who have made this problem the study of
their lives, who have visited the Arctic
regions and who are rich in ex-
perience If we could have an ex.
petition under the auspices of the
government, naval officers commanding il
in all its details and man like DR.. Hayes
directing its errand and intusing his spirit
into it's officers and men, we have no
doubt that America would enter ths
race with many chances of success.
Congress should act upon this matter at once.
The sum asked is very small, and it is o re-
Fiction upon our enterprise and patriotism to
see England and Germany so busy while we
are standing STILL