VOYAGES
OF
SIEUR DE CHAMPLAIN.


VOYAGE IN THE YEAR 1604.

CHAPTER I.

THE BENEFITS OF COMMERCE HAVE INDUCED SEVERAL PRINCES TO SEEK AN EASIER
ROUTE FOR TRAFFIC WITH THE PEOPLE OF THE EAST.--SEVERAL UNSUCCESSFUL
VOYAGES.--DETERMINATION OF THE FRENCH FOR THIS PURPOSE.--UNDERTAKING OF
SIEUR DE MONTS: HIS COMMISSION AND ITS REVOCATION.--NEW COMMISSION TO SIEUR
DE MONTS TO ENABLE HIM TO CONTINUE HIS UNDERTAKING.

The inclinations of men differ according to their varied dispositions; and
each one in his calling has his particular end in view. Some aim at gain,
some at glory, some at the public weal. The greater number are engaged in
trade, and especially that which is transacted on the sea. Hence arise the
principal support of the people, the opulence and honor of states. This is
what raised ancient Rome to the sovereignty and mastery over the entire
world, and the Venetians to a grandeur equal to that of powerful kings. It
has in all times caused maritime towns to abound in riches, among which
Alexandria and Tyre are distinguished, and numerous others, which fill up
the regions of the interior with the objects of beauty and rarity obtained
from foreign nations. For this reason, many princes have striven to find a