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is more durable and not so liable to fire from without. These are truths which ought to have their weight, but I think, they will vanish in a degree when the difference of expence [sic] is considered, & that the wooden one from its detached situation is not in much hazard from fire without, though equally exposed to fire within. A wooden Pyramid, built with good white pine timber, without [safe?], covered with seasoned feather edged boards, & these covered with shingles, well painted with three coats of paint, will last well for more than fifty years.
Respecting the heighth of the Lighthouses, it is necessary to observe that this must depend upon the elevation of the site above high water mark, and the distance the light ought to be seen. We have always considered that no essential good could be experienced by its being discovered more than four or five leagues; a vessel in that situation can shape her course as the master shall think proper. If an attempt should be made to shew [sic] the light at a greater distance, the site must be greatly elevated, and the Lighthouse so high that the curvature of the water may not intercept the light. I have not been able to discover any real advantage to the mariner from increasing the distance farther than four or five leagues, for in good weather when the atmosphere is thin and clear, that distance is quite sufficient, when it is not, an increased heighth will not be of any use. I do not