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THE CHESAPEAKE AND OHIO CANAL
71

from its terminus at Georgetown. "Whereas, a connection of the Atlantic and Western waters, by a canal," read the introduction to the resolutions adopted, "leading from the seat of the general government to the river Ohio, regarded as a local object, is one of the highest importance to the states immediately interested therein, and, considered in a national view, is of inestimable consequence to the future union, security, and happiness of the United States:

"Resolved, unanimously, That it is expedient to substitute, for the present defective navigation of the Potomac river above tide water, a navigable canal, by Cumberland to the mouth of Savage Creek, at the eastern base of the Alleghany, and to extend such canal, as soon thereafter as practicable, to the highest constant steamboat navigation of the Monongahela or Ohio river."[1] Another resolution outlined a plan of enlargement of the Potomac Canal Company by the appointment of committees "each consisting of five delegates, to prepare and present, in behalf of this

  1. Niles Register, vol. xxv, p. 173.