Researches into the history of the origin and progress of nations are in general allowed to be interesting, even as gratifying that natural curiosity which is in some degree implanted in the mind of every human being, and affording at least an innocent amusement in the leisure which can be spared from the employments and cares of necessary occupation. Were this all, the time given to such researches cannot be said to have been unprofitably expended. Whether it might have been less so in any other manner is a question which it would be difficult, if not impossible, for any individual to answer, as it regards another; or perhaps even the individual, who is led by choice to it, for himself.<br><br>Such researches are however of much more utility than as the gratification of mere curiosity.