text:  If we entertain the expectation that at no distant period of time our West India possessions will become advanced posts and aid in the development of the resources abounding in that extended and varied region at the entrance of which they are stationed--if the several islands there which hoist the British flag are destined to be resting-places for that trade between Great Britain and the Southern sea now opening to European industry--these two great interests cannot be so effectually advanced as by the means above suggested