The Massachusetts Spy

[From the Aurora.]

CANALS.

The attention directed to canal navigation, in various parts of the United States, at the present moment, is highly honourable, and promises great advantages to the country at large. The glory which is merited, by setting the great example, in this particular, belongs to the state of New-York. It is true that Pennsylvania was the first to make an attempt, and that Massachusetts was the first to complete, an artificial water communication; but New-York has a just claim to renown, as the successful accomplisher of a work, which, in boldness of design and rapidity of execution would do honour to the most enlightened and powerful nation. It is asserted in the New-Hampshire Gazette, that no less than five new canals are now in contemplation in the New-England States; and if our eastern neighbours direct their energies to such works as zealously as they have devoted them to manufactures, there can be no doubt but similar success will be their reward.

The State of Ohio has engaged Mr. James Geddes, one of the most skilful engineers of New-York, to make the requisite surveys and estimates for the Ohio canal---a work which would connect the Ohio with the lakes. Mr. Geddes is to receive a salary of $1500 a year, and his expenses are besides to be defrayed. When we consider that so stupendous a work is contemplated by so young a state as Ohio, we blush at the tardiness of Pennsylvania, and are disgusted at the efforts of those, who, for factious purposes, still grumble at the efforts that are now making to retrieve the character of the State.