99

92
1832 1st 9 mo Although the subject of digging a channel across the Bar appeared likely to succeed as mentioned in page 57 it has since proved by experience that it is unattainable, and is altogether given up & abandoned as a subject that cannot be accomplished without a very great expense & even then it is doubtful whether a permanent Ship channel could be made so as to be kept open. Heavy NE winds, a strong tide has an effect to fill up the channel soon after it is made. The Dredging machine is now digging at the Straight Wharf. but is soon likely to leave & go to the Delaware, by order of the Government, where it is intended to be employed.

4th Rainy misting rain the most of the day. In the evening much rain fell, the night succeeding a hard rain storm, accompanied with Thunder & Lightning.

This present year the whaling business has been very encouraging, the increasing consumption oil is far more extensive than was anticipated by the importers of that article. Notwithstanding the ships that have arrived has brought large quantities generally full cargoes, yet the price has kept up & rather improving. Candle oil is worth 92 cents at market, Summer [OIL] 90, Winter 100 cents.

New Bedford far exceeds all other places for the extension of the whaling business it is said they own 230 Ships & Brigs employed in that busines. It appears they have extended their business generally to a very great extent. The increase of the numbers of houses, stores, etc. is almost beyond conception and many of them very splendid & costly. Some cost 20,000$ & others 30 or 40,000$ and one John A. Parkers new building will cost from 100 to 150,000$.