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 18 {| class class class
 * colspan=29 |NORTH MIDLAND
 * colspan=2 |DOWN TRAINS
 * colspan=14 |Derby to Leeds
 * colspan=6 |Sundays
 * colspan=7 |Fares.
 * colspan=2 |STATIONS
 * colspan=2 |1
 * colspan=2 |2
 * colspan=2 |3
 * colspan=2 |4
 * colspan=2 |5
 * colspan=2 |6
 * colspan=2 |7
 * colspan=2 |8
 * colspan=2 |9
 * colspan=2 |10
 * rowspan=2 | DERBY TO
 * rowspan=2 colspan=2 |1st
 * rowspan=2 | DERBY TO
 * rowspan=2 colspan=2 |1st
 * rowspan=2 colspan=2 |2nd
 * rowspan=2 colspan=2 |3rd

Trains leave DERBY For Manchester and Liverpool, Huddersfield, Halifax, Todmorden, Rochdale, &c. at 2 53, and 6, & 10 a.m; 12 45 and 3 30 p.m on Sundays at 9 am and 2 45 p.m.
 * Departure From
 * colspan=2 |mail p.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m
 * colspan=2 |a.m
 * colspan=2 |a.m
 * colspan=2 |a.m
 * colspan=2 |a.m
 * colspan=2 |..
 * colspan=2 |mail p.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * LONDON
 * 9
 * 0
 * 6
 * 0
 * 9
 * 15
 * 11
 * 0
 * 9
 * 6
 * 8
 * 0
 * s.
 * d.
 * s.
 * d.
 * s.
 * d.
 * BIRMINGHAM
 * 12
 * 30
 * 7
 * 30
 * 10
 * 30
 * 1
 * 25
 * 4
 * 0
 * 12
 * 30
 * 7
 * 0
 * Sheffield
 * 12
 * 0
 * 8
 * 0
 * 4
 * 6
 * Miles
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |p.m.
 * colspan=2 |p.m.
 * colspan=2 |p.m.
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |a.m.
 * colspan=2 |p.m.
 * Normanton
 * 17
 * 6
 * 12
 * 6
 * 7
 * 6
 * 0
 * DERBY
 * 2
 * 53
 * 6
 * 0
 * 10
 * 0
 * 12
 * 45
 * 3
 * 30
 * 6
 * 0
 * 2
 * 52
 * 9
 * 0
 * 2
 * 45
 * Leeds
 * 20
 * 6
 * 14
 * 0
 * 9
 * 0
 * 5¼
 * Duffield, Arrival
 * 6
 * 10
 * 6
 * 10
 * 9
 * 10
 * 2
 * 54
 * York
 * 24
 * 6
 * 17
 * 6
 * 7¼
 * Belper
 * 6
 * 18
 * 10
 * 15
 * 1
 * 0
 * 3
 * 45
 * 6
 * 18
 * 9
 * 18
 * 3
 * 0
 * Hull
 * 27
 * 6
 * 20
 * 6
 * 10½
 * Ambergate
 * 6
 * 25
 * 10
 * 25
 * 3
 * 55
 * 6
 * 50
 * 9
 * 30
 * 3
 * 15
 * Darlington
 * 37
 * 6
 * 26
 * 6
 * 17
 * 3
 * 14
 * Wingfield
 * 6
 * 37
 * 10
 * 30
 * 1
 * 20
 * 4
 * 0
 * 6
 * 40
 * 9
 * 40
 * 3
 * 25
 * rowspan=26 colspan=7 |Nos. 3,4, and 5 and 6 are in connexion at Derby with trains from Nottingham, and 1,3,4,5, and 6 with trains from Leicester and Loughborough.
 * 9
 * 18
 * 3
 * 0
 * Hull
 * 27
 * 6
 * 20
 * 6
 * 10½
 * Ambergate
 * 6
 * 25
 * 10
 * 25
 * 3
 * 55
 * 6
 * 50
 * 9
 * 30
 * 3
 * 15
 * Darlington
 * 37
 * 6
 * 26
 * 6
 * 17
 * 3
 * 14
 * Wingfield
 * 6
 * 37
 * 10
 * 30
 * 1
 * 20
 * 4
 * 0
 * 6
 * 40
 * 9
 * 40
 * 3
 * 25
 * rowspan=26 colspan=7 |Nos. 3,4, and 5 and 6 are in connexion at Derby with trains from Nottingham, and 1,3,4,5, and 6 with trains from Leicester and Loughborough.
 * 37
 * 10
 * 30
 * 1
 * 20
 * 4
 * 0
 * 6
 * 40
 * 9
 * 40
 * 3
 * 25
 * rowspan=26 colspan=7 |Nos. 3,4, and 5 and 6 are in connexion at Derby with trains from Nottingham, and 1,3,4,5, and 6 with trains from Leicester and Loughborough.
 * 40
 * 3
 * 25
 * rowspan=26 colspan=7 |Nos. 3,4, and 5 and 6 are in connexion at Derby with trains from Nottingham, and 1,3,4,5, and 6 with trains from Leicester and Loughborough.

Passengers are booked from Derby to all the above stations.

Third class passengers will be conveyed from London by the 7 a.m. train, arriving in Leeds the same evening. Fare 25s 6d.

Passengers may be booked through from London to Manchester and Rochdale via Derbt, by the 6 and 9¼ a.m. and 9 p.m trains, from Euston square.

First and Second class carriages are attached to all the trs., & Third class car to th 6, (750 from Sheffield), and 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Time is allowed at Derby for refreshment.

Passengers are particularly requested to notice the number of the carriage on which their luggage is placed.
 * 17¾
 * Stretton
 * 6
 * 50
 * 6
 * 50
 * 9
 * 50
 * 3
 * 38
 * 20¼
 * Clay Cross
 * 7
 * 0
 * 7
 * 0
 * 10
 * 0
 * 3
 * 45
 * 24¼
 * CHESTERFIELD
 * 3
 * 43
 * 7
 * 5
 * 10
 * 53
 * 1
 * 40
 * 4
 * 23
 * 7
 * 5
 * 3
 * 40
 * 10
 * 8
 * 3
 * 50
 * 27¾
 * Stavely
 * 7
 * 16
 * 7
 * 16
 * 10
 * 16
 * 4
 * 0
 * 30½
 * Eckington
 * 7
 * 23
 * 11
 * 8
 * 1
 * 53
 * 4
 * 38
 * 7
 * 23
 * 10
 * 23
 * 4
 * 8
 * 35½
 * Woodhouse Mill
 * 7
 * 35
 * 11
 * 21
 * 7
 * 35
 * 10
 * 35
 * 4
 * 20
 * 40
 * MASBORO'
 * 4
 * 12
 * 7
 * 50
 * 11
 * 30
 * 2
 * 15
 * 5
 * 0
 * 7
 * 46
 * 4
 * 10
 * 10
 * 46
 * 4
 * 31
 * 45
 * SHEFFIELD
 * 5
 * 0
 * 8
 * 30
 * 12
 * 15
 * 2
 * 45
 * 5
 * 30
 * 8
 * 30
 * 5
 * 0
 * 11
 * 30
 * 5
 * 15
 * Departure
 * 7
 * 50
 * 11
 * 15
 * 2
 * 0
 * 4
 * 45
 * 7
 * 30
 * 10
 * 30
 * 4
 * 15
 * 45
 * Swinton
 * 8
 * 20
 * 11
 * 58
 * 2
 * 35
 * 5
 * 18
 * 8
 * 3
 * 11
 * 3
 * 4
 * 50
 * 47
 * Wath
 * 8
 * 30
 * 8
 * 12
 * 11
 * 12
 * 4
 * 55
 * 49
 * Darfield
 * 8
 * 34
 * 8
 * 19
 * 11
 * 19
 * 5
 * 5
 * 53¼
 * BARNSLEY
 * 4
 * 43
 * 8
 * 46
 * 12
 * 9
 * 2
 * 54
 * 5
 * 39
 * 8
 * 30
 * 4
 * 40
 * 11
 * 30
 * 5
 * 15
 * 56½
 * Royston and Notton
 * 9
 * 0
 * 8
 * 44
 * 11
 * 44
 * 5
 * 30
 * 60¼
 * OAKENSHW
 * 9
 * 8
 * 12
 * 20
 * 3
 * 15
 * 8
 * 50
 * 11
 * 53
 * 5
 * 40
 * 63¼
 * NORMANTON
 * 5
 * 14
 * 9
 * 24
 * 12
 * 43
 * 3
 * 28
 * 6
 * 13
 * 9
 * 0
 * 5
 * 10
 * 12
 * 9
 * 6
 * 0
 * 66¼
 * Methley]
 * 9
 * 42
 * 1
 * 0
 * 9
 * 27
 * 12
 * 27
 * 6
 * 12
 * 68
 * WOODLESFORD
 * 9
 * 50
 * 1
 * 10
 * 9
 * 34
 * 12
 * 34
 * 6
 * 20
 * 73
 * LEEDS
 * 5
 * 53
 * 10
 * 15
 * 1
 * 45
 * 4
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 10
 * 0
 * 5
 * 53
 * 1
 * 0
 * 6
 * 45
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * 5
 * 39
 * 8
 * 30
 * 4
 * 40
 * 11
 * 30
 * 5
 * 15
 * 56½
 * Royston and Notton
 * 9
 * 0
 * 8
 * 44
 * 11
 * 44
 * 5
 * 30
 * 60¼
 * OAKENSHW
 * 9
 * 8
 * 12
 * 20
 * 3
 * 15
 * 8
 * 50
 * 11
 * 53
 * 5
 * 40
 * 63¼
 * NORMANTON
 * 5
 * 14
 * 9
 * 24
 * 12
 * 43
 * 3
 * 28
 * 6
 * 13
 * 9
 * 0
 * 5
 * 10
 * 12
 * 9
 * 6
 * 0
 * 66¼
 * Methley]
 * 9
 * 42
 * 1
 * 0
 * 9
 * 27
 * 12
 * 27
 * 6
 * 12
 * 68
 * WOODLESFORD
 * 9
 * 50
 * 1
 * 10
 * 9
 * 34
 * 12
 * 34
 * 6
 * 20
 * 73
 * LEEDS
 * 5
 * 53
 * 10
 * 15
 * 1
 * 45
 * 4
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 10
 * 0
 * 5
 * 53
 * 1
 * 0
 * 6
 * 45
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * 9
 * 50
 * 1
 * 10
 * 9
 * 34
 * 12
 * 34
 * 6
 * 20
 * 73
 * LEEDS
 * 5
 * 53
 * 10
 * 15
 * 1
 * 45
 * 4
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 10
 * 0
 * 5
 * 53
 * 1
 * 0
 * 6
 * 45
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * 6
 * 45
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |A.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.
 * colspan=2 |P.M.

 * 113
 * MANCHESTER
 * 8
 * 30
 * 12
 * 55
 * 4
 * 30
 * 6
 * 45
 * 9
 * 0
 * 10
 * 45
 * 145
 * LIVERPOOL
 * 10
 * 30
 * 6
 * 30
 * 9
 * 0
 * 87
 * YORK
 * 6
 * 25
 * 11
 * 30
 * 2
 * 45
 * 4
 * 30
 * 7
 * 36
 * 6
 * 25
 * 2
 * 45
 * 7
 * 30
 * 111
 * HULL
 * 8
 * 21
 * 1
 * 10
 * 4
 * 0
 * 9
 * 10
 * 8
 * 21
 * 9
 * 10
 * 132
 * DARLINGTON
 * 9
 * 8
 * 2
 * 15
 * 5
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 9
 * 3
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * 30
 * 111
 * HULL
 * 8
 * 21
 * 1
 * 10
 * 4
 * 0
 * 9
 * 10
 * 8
 * 21
 * 9
 * 10
 * 132
 * DARLINGTON
 * 9
 * 8
 * 2
 * 15
 * 5
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 9
 * 3
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * 8
 * 2
 * 15
 * 5
 * 15
 * 7
 * 0
 * 9
 * 3
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * 9
 * 3
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * 9
 * 3
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains
 * colspan=29 |COACHES—Swinton station:—Conveyances from and to Doncaster meet Nos. 2,3,4, & 5 Up. and 2,3,4, & 5 Down trains

Leeds Stn:—Coaches from and to Harrogate, Bradford, Otley, Knaresboro'. Ripon, Bingley, Keighly, Skipton, Settle, Kirby Lonsdale, etc. meet the various trns.

Ambergate station:—Ominibuses from and to Matlock meet Nos. 1 up and 3 and 5 down trains.

 * }

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 "WE SHALL SOON REACH THE GARDEN OF PARADISE," SAID THE EAST WIND.


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Page:Guatimala or the United Provinces of Central America in 1827-8.pdf/224

Rh the quantity of goods imported has considerably increased is certain, but the overplus has been paid in coin; besides which, the markets are at the present day loaded with British manufactures. So long as civil war rages in those parts of the country where indigo is almost universally cultivated, the produce must be rather on the decrease than otherwise.

A sketch of the principal employment of the inhabitants of each state will show the slight degree of encouragement given to agriculture in the different provinces.

The inhabitants of the state of Guatimala, are employed—1st. As carriers, for which they serve all the other states, in their importations and exportations. 2d. In the production of cochineal, a little indigo, about 500 cargoes of cocoa, and some flour. 3d. In the manufacture of some coarse woollens, of which it is calculated a quantity equal in value to 200,000 dollars is furnished to the other states. Those of San Salvador are almost entirely employed in the cultivation of indigo, cotton, and sugar. Those of Honduras, in the rearing of about 40,000 head of cattle introduced annually into San Salvador and Guatimala, and in the cultivation of tobacco. Those of Nicaragua, in the growth of cocoa, and the breeding of cattle. While those of Costa Rica, scarcely raise more of any article than is requisite for


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Page:Guatimala or the United Provinces of Central America in 1827-8.pdf/225

Rh the internal consumption of the province, with the exception of some mahogany and cedar, which is shipped for Peru. The manufactures of panelas, and the growth of maize, as common to all the states, need not be noticed.

A very useful table, formed in 1818, on the cultivation of cocoa in the province of Suchitepequez, exhibits clearly the proportion the Indians employed in agriculture, bear to the white and coloured population, and the way in which the lands are divided. From it an idea may be formed of the other districts. The province of Suchitepequez consists of sixteen villages, containing 503 Indian cultivators of cocoa, and 115 white and coloured, employed in the same manner; the former possess 9408 cuerdas of land, the latter 26,769; the Indians own 241,613 old trees, and 3,875 new ones; the whites and ladinos 540,808 old trees, and 322,512 new ones; the latter having besides 142,940 plants in seed. The trees of the Indians amount to 245,488, and those of the whites and ladinos to 863,320. The total number of trees in the province being 1,108,808. In the whole of the province, the Indians are, 12,190, and the Spaniards and ladinos, 3,374.

From hence we learn that the Indian population in proportion to the white and coloured, is


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Rh as four to one, and the Indian cultivators of cocoa to the latter similarly employed is as five to one. While the proportion of land possessed by the whites and ladinos, is three times as great as that in the possession of Indians, and the number of trees owned by the former, is four times as great as those possessed by the latter. The civilization of the Indians, the division of the land into small lots, and their participation in equal rights and privileges, is evidently one of the steps most required for the prosperity of the country.

Up to the year 1800, Quezaltenango in the state of Guatimala, had thirty small manufactures of linen, cotton, serges and coarse cloths, which unitedly employed about 200 hands, but these have rapidly disappeared, and very few now remain. The annual fair held at this place, was till within the last few years considerable. The average sales were estimated at about 18,000 bushels of wheat,—14,000 dollars worth of cocoa,—50,000 dollars worth of panelas,—12,000 of sugar,—30,000 of woollen cloths and 5000 of cottons. This fair is now very inconsiderable.

In the environs of St. Ana, are some iron foundries, which up to the year 1800 produced annually 1500 quintals, or 150,000 pounds at the present day they do not furnish more than a third of that weight.


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Rh The manufacture of gunpowder, saltpetre and playing cards, are government monopolies, the quantity does not exceed what is required for internal consumption. Coarse hats, shoes and saddlery, are manufactured in considerable quantities. Fancy articles are finished very neatly, and mats, baskets and other curiosities are cleverly executed by the Indians.

Almost every kind of artificer may probably be met with, but they are generally very idle and more than ordinarily troublesome, in the execution of what they undertake. Juarros tells us that the manufacturers of fine earthenware, can compete in their productions with the porcelain of Germany; nothing however has yet been produced in Guatimala better than a very coarse tea cup, and earthenware and porcelain of every kind is still imported from Europe.

The only remaining source of national wealth to be noticed is the mines. Humboldt in his table of the respective produce of the mines of America, has written against those of Guatimala, “nothing,” as Spain never derived from them any benefit. Since the revolution the most exaggerated statements have been sent forth respecting the mineral wealth of Guatimala, and several of the mines are now in the hands of companies who are attempting to work them.


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Rh In the district of Tegucigalpa in the state of Honduras, are to be found thirteen mines, among which that of Corpus has hitherto been the most celebrated; it is said to have produced at one time gold in such abundance, as to excite suspicions of the reality of the metal, and a treasury was appointed upon the spot to receive the king's fifths, but after this appointment the golden dream vanished, and no more was heard of this immense source of wealth. The appointment is merely said to have proved unsuccessful. The neighbourhood of Olancho is also famous for the quantity of fine gold, which is said to have been collected in the sands of the river Guyape in its course through this valley. In Costa Rica mines are to be met with in abundance, but of what quality they may be, it is impossible to say. No kind of record seems to have been kept of their true state, or of what they have at any time produced.

In order to form some conception on the subject, a statement was asked from the master of the mint, showing the number of marks of gold and silver coined for fifteen years previous, and fifteen years subsequent to 1810, with any information he was able to afford, on the productions of the mines. The following is an exact copy of the document. “Statement manifesting the number of marks of Gold and Silver, coined in thirty


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Rh years—the fifteen first anterior to the year 1810, and the other fifteen posterior, showing the comparative increase, during the latter epoch.

This statement solely refers, to the quantity of gold and silver, coined in this house during the thirty years named, and it must not be deduced


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Rh from hence that this is all our mines have produced since a great quantity of these metals have been employed in works of ornament, and a still greater quantity exported, particularly since the year 1821. It is positively known, that the greater part of the merchants of the state of Honduras, and of other parts, have exported to foreign countries great quantities of gold and silver bullion, so that according to the calculation of intelligent persons, scarcely a tenth part of the metals obtained within the last six years, will have passed through the mint. On this account it is impossible to state exactly the effective produce of each year, and much less the amount exported to Europe, because the greater part has been effected clandestinely. In all the territory of this republic there are mines in abundance, but particularly in the state of Honduras, where the greater number are to be found, and where nature presents the greatest mineral wealth. In numbers 111, and 112, of the periodical called the Indicador, there is the following communication.

“'The mine called Tabanco in the state of Salvador, had been abandoned by its owners, who despaired of making it profitable on account of the great difficulty they found in removing the water, in spite of the activity with which


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Rh they laboured to accomplish it. We are now assured that it has begun to yield, the water having been removed by a steam-engine; so that now not only will they gain from the mine all the advantages it may offer, but others will reap advantage from the experiment, and this branch of riches will again be opened for our country.—Without enumerating more than the above mines and those of Guayarillas, Tuzcaran, Macuelizo, La Baca, El Cuyal, and Merendon, there will be found sufficient to fill the country with treasures, if they are worked with care by a sufficient number of labourers, directed by scientific persons; and so great is the quantity of gold and silver they contain, that they may be said to be inexhaustible.'

“These observations far from being exaggerated, rather appear to me below the truth, since they do not speak of many other mines, celebrated for their richness, such as that of Corpus, which is at this time clearing of water by a steam-engine, under the direction of Mr. Moyle; that of Cedros, Sta. Lucia, Sta. Barbara, San Antonio, Las Animas, the Malacate, and the Encuentros: neither does it mention near 2000 metallic veins, of which the government of the state of Honduras was informed in the years 1825 and 1826; nor does it say anything of the great riches of the hills of Aguacate, near


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Rh, from whence since the year 1822, when it was discovered, have been received 1200 marks of gold; estimating that twice as much more has been exported to foreign countries. Mr. Gourmez a mining engineer, who has visited most of the mines of Honduras, assures me, that it is easier to find mines than men to work them, so that facilitating the meanS of clearing them, and finding labourers, there is reason to believe, that within a short time, our mineral productions may rival those of the republics of Mexico and Peru.”

This document is signed by the Master of the Mint.

A more useless or deceptious appendix it was scarcely possible to have added; for although it be true, that a considerable portion of metal has been employed in works of ornament, and a still greater quantity clandestinely exported, it should be remembered, that very considerable importations have been made from Mexico, Peru, and Chile, and that a great proportion of the specie which is clandestinely sent out of the country, is not in bars but in current coin.

To quote from an old newspaper an erroneous statement, and to assert that two steam-engines are at work when it is well known that as yet only one of them has been put up, is unworthy of any person officially employed; while the story of


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Rh 2000 metallic veins having been discovered in 1825 and 1826, there can be no doubt is grossly exaggerated. Yet there is no better mode of obtaining information, and under present circumstances to expect any thing approaching to satisfactory or correct statements, is quite out of the question.

The mine of Corpus has been for about two years under the direction of an English company, and a considerable number of Cornish miners, under the superintendence of Mr. Moyle, an able mining engineer, have proceeded to it. The disasters and difficulties they have experienced, are of the same character as those suffered by others engaged in similar undertakings. The greater number of the men on their arrival at the coast, fell into habits of drunkenness, and several of them died; while others were obliged to be left sick in the capital. Those who proceeded forward, immediately commenced the clearing out of the water, and the last accounts received were, that the mine appeared very rich, and the prospect flattering, but that hitherto no metal had been extracted. Provisions were very scarce, and of the worst quality, while the surrounding country was in a distracted state, owing to civil tumults.

Results rather more favourable have however, been experienced at the mine of Tabanco, under


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Rh the direction of Dr. Rhy, and Mr. Bennett of Belize. A sketch of the mine and surrounding country has appeared in the Honduras Gazette, from which we learn, that the mine is situated in a very romantic part of the province of San Salvador, fourteen leagues from San Miguel, and that it is surrounded by a chain of high hills, over which a good carriage road, eighteen feet wide, has been cut in a zigzag direction, by the proprietors of the mines, for the purpose of conveying the large pieces of a steam-engine, which were too heavy to be conveyed in the usual way on mules, from La Seba (a small port on the Pacific) to the mine. A considerable space is said to be levelled near the mouth, on which is erected an engine-house, blacksmiths' forge, carpenters' shop, and a long range of buildings for the accommodation of the workmen. The engine was at that time at work, and is described as a good one, of six horse power, acting so forcibly, that, although the water in the shaft occupied a space of twelve feet by eight or nine, it cleared at the average of thirteen inches within the hour. The mine is said to have been wrought to a very considerable perpendicular depth, independent of numerous branches, or levels, as they are termed; all of which must be full of water, so that much time must necessarily be occupied before it is completely drained. The country about Tabanco


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Rh is described as mountainous, the air pure, and the climate healthy; the soil is, however, very poor, and unproductive. The principal articles produced, are, sugar-cane, maize, and indigo; the latter, very inferior, and the two former, though good in their kind, in quantities quite inadequate to the consumption.

A third mine, situated in Costa Rica, is said, also, to be in the hands of the English, but no particulars respecting the owners, or account of the progress they have made, has yet reached the capital. The expense attendant on the working of mines in Guatimala, must, necessarily be immense, while the profits, at the best, are probably very doubtful. Calculations, much too sanguine, have hitherto been made, on the advantages that would accrue from the introduction of English machinery, since, in forming them, the local situation has been too frequently left out of the question. The fixing of steam engines, in countries where every thing has to be transported many hundreds of miles, on mules, over high and rugged mountains, and in parts where fuel is often scarce, is no easy task, and, even if accomplished, the advantages of it must be very problematical.

In all probability, we shall find, within a very few years, the mines again worked by the natives, although under the direction of foreigners, since the risk and expense attendant on bringing out


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231 Englishmen, is far too great to allow of its continuance. In this case, the old plans must probably be once more resorted to, since the prejudices of the natives will oppose an insuperable obstacle to the introduction of new ones. Yet still the difficulties of the undertaking will be considerable, and if; with the many advantages the Spaniards possessed, as despots of the soil, they could gain but little, our superior energy and skill is not sufficient to produce results so brilliant as have been supposed.

The Europeans of Guatimala, steadily assert that the Indians were not forced to work in the mines contrary to their inclination; but a few lines which we find in Juarros, who is at least an unexceptionable witness on this point, proves the contrary to be the fact. He says in alluding to the Alcalde-Mayor, who was appointed for the purpose of superintending the working of the mines, and receiving the king's fifths: “This officer was invested with plenary jurisdiction both in civil and criminal matters, within the boundaries of the mines, and had the power of compelling a fourth part of the Indians, within a circuit of twelve leagues, to work in them.”

With privileges such as these, it is truly surprising, that the Spaniards, while extracting wealth from Mexico and Peru, should have failed to enrich themselves from mines so flatteringly


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. Probably the result of the present English speculations will solve the enigma, and prove, that the present scarcity of population, the wretched state of the roads, and other local disadvantages, increase the expenses too materially to allow of any considerable profit.

That the amount of the precious metals in circulation in the country, is considerably less than it was twenty years ago, there can be no doubt. The scarcity of produce suitable for exportation, and the duties imposed upon indigo, by the government, tend to encourage the exportation of specie, and considerable quantities both of coin and plate, are constantly shipped for Belize and Europe.

The amount of foreign goods annually imported into Guatimala may be calculated at two millions of dollars, while the quantity of produce exported does not amount to two-thirds of that sum; the overplus being probably paid in coin. Humboldt estimates the annual amount of goods introduced into Guatimala, before the revolution, at this sum, (without including the contraband trade, which at that time was considerable,) but this was certainly not the case.

From a table published in 1796, it appears, that from the years 1790, to 1794, inclusive, only nineteen vessels arrived from the peninsula, bringing with them goods of different kinds, to the


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Rh amount of about five millions of dollars, and receiving in exchange 4,702,800 lbs. of indigo; 729 arrobas of zarza; 1015 jars of balsam, and 192,059 dollars; the whole being equal in value to 4,942,131 dollars, and averaging only 988,426 dollars annually.

The present importations are made almost entirely by the ports of Omoa and Yzabal. The former about 15° 23' N. lat. and 88° 56' W. long. 100 leagues from Guatimala, is the principal depot for goods from the Havana and the Peninsula, with which some trade is still carried on; and the latter for British merchandize from Belize. A few French vessels, and three or four from the United States, have recently arrived at Omoa; and, as the Dutch have appointed a Consul in Truxillo, and a Consul-General in Guatimala, it is to be presumed, that they will soon become competitors.

From Omoa, goods are forwarded by the river Motagua to Gualan, and, from thence, to the capital, by mules, while all the goods arriving at Yzabal, are transported across the mountain of Mico to Gualan; from whence they proceed by the same route. In each case, from six to nine months is consumed, before any quantity of packages can arrive. To the scarcity of mules, and want of energy on the part of the muleteers, the delay must be attributed, as, with immediate forwarding,


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Rh they might reach the capital in a month or six weeks. The indigo for exportation is principally conveyed on mules from the province of San Salvador to the capital, and from thence to the northern coast by the same means, and equal, if not greater risks and delays are incurred. The ports of the South Sea, now receive only a few vessels from the neighbouring republics, and little traffic of importance is carried on in them.

Such is the deplorable state of the agriculture and commerce of Guatimala. It remains to be considered, what means are most likely to promote the one, and improve the other. The scarcity of population, the habits of the people, and the facilities that exist for gaining a subsistence without labour, are obstacles which time only can remove. Considerable emigrations from Europe, seem indispensable to the prosperity of the country, but neither the government or the people are yet liberal enough to offer any temptation to strangers, to settle upon their soil. Other and perhaps more permanent impediments will be found in the inland situation of the capital, in the expense and difficulty attendant on land carriage, and in the deserted state of all the ports.

The memorial of the Consulado, thus laments facts which can no longer be concealed; it says, “the commerce of the ports of Realejo, and Acajutla is now reduced to two or three small ships


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Rh each year from Peru and New Spain. The port of Omoa is alone sufficient for the trade with the Peninsula, reduced to very few vessels; indeed all these ports with the exception of Omoa, may be said to be abandoned. Between them and the capital lie immense tracts of country, without regular roads, and totally unprotected, and the risk of forwarding produce to them for exportation is considerable. Nor is it lessened when they arrive. Without suitable stores, or warehouses, goods must remain four or perhaps six months, waiting some vessel to transport them; while the villages on the coast unhealthy and pestiferous, owing to the quantity of trees, which have been permitted for years to multiply unmolested around them, are inhabited only by the lowest order of mariners, and totally undefended. In these situations the country round does not furnish even the common necessaries of life.”

“Were the rich and fruitful lands, which lie from Comayagua to Truxillo, from the Llanos, Gualan, and Coban, to Omoa and the Golfo Dulce, and those which stretch along the extensive coast of the South Sea, filled with an industrious population, willing to cultivate the various fruits which are the natural productions of this favoured spot, blessed as it is with every variety of climate and of soil, there is not perhaps a country in the world, which would he more prosperous.


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Rh or which contains within itself in a greater degree, the elements of wealth.

“Whether the transportation of the Caribs, now useless in Truxillo, to the shores of the Dulce, and the banks of the Motagua, or whether the division of the land near the coast into small lots, and ceded to Indians on condition of cultivating a certain portion with the fruit of the country, be desirable, is for others to determine. That the establishment of small settlements on the northern coast, as well as on the southern, and the cultivation of cocoa, which from its superior quality might again be transported both to Mexico and Peru, as well as to Europe, would be beneficial, is however certain.”

Such are the published opinions of the Consulado as a body, upon the deplorable catalogue of evils which afflict their country. That the extension of agriculture in Guatimala, is identified with the habilitation of the ports, and the population of its coasts, no reasonable doubt can be entertained; since from its present locality, the expenses of transportation, alone forbid competition with other countries. This inconvenience might however in some degree be lessened by changing the route which goods now take, in order to leave or arrive at the capital.

Up to the year 1796 the importations from the Peninsula were made by the Gulf, and


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Rh from Yzabal to Guatimala by mules; but about this period a company was formed for opening the navigation of the river Motagua, from Gualan to Omoa, and proposals were issued containing tables, which exhibited the difference in freight. The company however from some cause or other, failed in accomplishing its object, and with the exception of a few private individuals, the road by Yzabal was invariably frequented. In September 1815, a royal order was issued for the navigation of this river, which appears to have had the desired effect. A few individuals united together, and aided by a loan of 5000 dollars from the Consulado, provided suitable vessels and established a regular communication. Since then it has been the regular channel for all exports, and for a great portion of the imports, although eight days on an average is consumed in the descent, and from fifteen to twenty-four in the ascent.

To no other cause but an unwillingness to change old roads, can he attributed the neglect of the river Polichic, which seems to offer for the northern coast, a far more convenient and easier passage, than the Motagua and Guslan. By


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Rh a royal order of the 30th of March 1795, the Consulado was directed to encourage the navigation of this river, but for some unknown reason no steps were taken for that purpose. The total absence of an enterprising spirit, has prevented private individuals from following at their own risk this route with goods, so that with a few solitary exceptions, it remains unfrequented.

This river rises in the mountain of Xucanab, and in its way to the Amatique Gulf is joined by the Cahabon, from whence it becomes navigable for launches, or as they are called by the natives pit-pans; and flat canoes can ascend much higher than this junction. Juarros says that in former times, the merchandise imported from Spain to Guatimala, and the returning exports were conveyed by this river; and even so lately as 1793 the organ sent from Europe, for the church of San Domingo was transported by this route to the capital. From Guatimala to Pauchisquí the place of embarkation, is a journey of about six days, consisting of 50 leagues; the road is more level than the one to Gualan, cooler during the hot months, and if it were frequented, would soon be more convenient, both with regard to provisions and lodgings. From Panchisquí to the mouth of the river, which is close to the Port of Yzabal, is a navigation of not more than twenty-four hours in the descent, or four days in the


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Rh ascent. From this point to Omoa, it is easy to arrive in two or three days if the weather be favorable,—but during three or four months in the year, a more considerable delay must be calculated upon. At all events a saving of four or five days would he insured,—but this is not sufficient to tempt private individuals to leave the accustomed route, unless they could be certain that launches and mules would be ready on their arrival. Were active steps taken to prepare these requisites, there can be little doubt but that it would again be frequented, and a considerable advantage accrue to the capital.

On the Pacific the only ports frequented, are Conchagua situated a few leagues from San Salvador, which possesses one of the finest harbours in the world; and Acajutla an open bay without shelter, five leagues from Sonzonate; which is used as the port of Guatimala, from which it is fifty-five leagues distant over rough and mountainous country. There is however, another point known under the name of the Bar of Istapa, from which goods might be forwarded


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Rh much more rapidly and securely, were proper means used for that purpose. Its importance in a commercial point of view, is thus stated by Juarros; he says, “It affords every convenience and advantage for carrying on an extensive traffic in the Pacific. Its contiguity to the city of Guatimala, would enable speculators to obtain all the productions of the country at a moderate rate, which could be conveyed by land carriage to the place of embarkation at a trifling expense, on a road that was opened and levelled in 1539, for the purpose of transporting upon carriages some of Alvarados small vessels. There is excellent anchorage well sheltered on every point, there are neither reefs nor shallows, and the entrance is perfectly safe and easy. A redoubt with four or six pieces of cannon would afford protection to the shipping; and for the construction of such a defence, there are many eligible points. With respect to ship building, the advantages are of still greater importance,


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Rh as wood of the best quality is found in the neighbourhood in quantities inexhaustible. Cordage is still more plentiful, for on every part of this coast, the pita grows luxuriantly and profusely, which is much superior for the manufacture of cables and other ropes to the esparto, (genista hispanica.) Pitch and tar are both good and cheap in the valley of Jumais; and freights of valuable wood or agricultural produce, may be procured here to almost any extent.”

The attention of the government has of late been directed to this subject; the point in question, has been named the port of Independencia; and a commission has been appointed to take the necessary steps towards fitting it for the reception of vessels. It is situated according to Mr. Hamilton Moore, in lat. 14° N. and long. 92° 35' W. Like Acajutla, it is only an open road-stead and unprotected, the statement of Juarros in this respect being erroneous; but the conveniences for landing at Raudal, a fishing station on the coast, close to the bar of the River Michatoyat, are equal if not superior to the former. The advantages to be derived from the undertaking, arise chiefly from its proximity to the capital, and the ease with which goods may be transported. Distant only thirty-six leagues, the road is for the most part perfectly level, and with the exception of a short distance near to


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Rh, goods might be transported in carriages with trifling expense, little delay, and less risk of robberies. Even by mules, packages could be forwarded at the utmost in six days, and at an expense of not more than three reales an arroba (25 lb.) While by the northern ports, a lapse of six weeks and an expenditure of five times that sum, would at least be requisite. So great a difference would abundantly repay the extra freight round Cape Horn, and should the project be carried into effect, there can be little doubt but that the course of a few years will bring nearly all the foreign commerce of Guatimala, to the ports of the Pacific.

Nor would the advantage of such a change, be confined merely to the trade with the capital. Vessels leaving Europe in the month of June, and arriving at Independencia about the end of November, after leaving part of their cargo at this plaoe for Guatimala, might pass forward to Libertad and Conchagua; where goods might be landed for the states of San Salvador and Leon, and freights of indigo, or of the valuable woods of Nicaragua, all of which are on the spot, might be taken in before the approach of the stormy weather. That by this means, an immense saving both of labour and money, might be effected is certain, and it is not improbable that


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Rh the experiment will be tried, before many years have elapsed.

One subject of dispute among the contending states of Guatimala, is the situation of the capital; the people of San Salvador wishing it removed to their city, as better suited for the trade of the republic.

Should this change ever take place, and it is by no means impossible, although perhaps distant, a still greater weight would be given to the motives, for encouraging foreign traffic by the Pacific, and if to this should be added the cultivation of cocoa, and other fruits near the coast, the state of the country would be materially improved. But before commerce can attain a solid basis, other changes equally important are required, among which new regulations for the recovery of debts is not one of the least. At the present day, no fixed or regular period of payment, can be said to exist. Goods are sold it is true according to their invoice, with a defined period of credit, but if at the expiration of that time, the purchaser finds himself unable to fulfil his contract, or if from avaricious or dilatory motives he does not wish to pay, he asks two, three, or more months' additional credit, which is almost invariably granted. Should he after various delays of this kind become involved in debt, and the patience of his creditors be completely worn


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Rh out, he is summoned before the Consulado or chamber of commerce, and the court takes possession of his goods. After the usual forms have been passed through, notice is given to his creditors, and some kind of dividend is then made; but as to its amount in almost every case, the creditor finds himself at the mercy of his debtor.

Proceedings so dilatory, preclude that promptness and punctuality which is the very soul of business. Another impediment to commercial prosperity, will be found in that jealousy which still exists against the establishment of foreigners in the republic, a feeling which will only yield to a more correct knowledge of their true interests. To such an extent is this folly carried, that in the month of March 1827, a decree passed the legislative assembly almost unanimously, forbidding strangers to sell by retail in the capital, a law which if carried into force at the present day, would tend to the entire exclusion of every foreigner. Strong representations were made on the part of the consuls resident in the capital, and the decree did not receive the approbation of the senate. It was probably smothered by its friends, from a conviction that to carry it forward, would under existing circumstances be impolitic. The proposal however, and the unanimity with which


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Rh it passed the assembly, clearly shows the current feeling upon this subject.

Whether Guatimala will ever attain to any very high pitch of prosperity as a nation, is perhaps doubtful. Its chief advantage consists in the variety of its productions, but on this the prosperity of a country never did or can depend. The lapse of many years, and the emigration from Europe of a more industrious population, would seem to be necessary, before its soil can be duly cultivated, or its agriculture in any considerable degree promoted.


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Natural History,—Productions,—Physical Geography,—Rivers and Lakes,—Diseases,—Idiotcy.

part of the United Provinces invites the attention of the naturalist to a field, in which scarcely any investigations have, as yet, been made. In the zoological department, may be found a species of lion, without mane,—the tiger, or, rather, the jaguar,—the manati, tapir, and wild boar,—the bear, and the wolf,—monkeys of every description, liom the most diminutive of all their tribes, to the great baboon, bold and powerful enough to combat man,—stags, squirrels, and all the domestic animals, besides many others, peculiar to the country, and undescribed by naturalists.

Of the ornithology still less is known; an infinite variety of the feathered tribe, including, it is supposed, near two hundred species, found only in these parts of the New World, and comprising


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Rh every order and genera, from the unclean and heavy-winged vulture, to the fairy little humming-bird, delight the eye with their plumage, or enliven the woods with their song. In the warmer provinces, serpents and reptiles infest every bush, and the entomologist, even in his chamber, may revel among specimens of every class and genus.

To attempt any thing like description of such a diversified host, is out of the question. The ferocious animals seldom leave the woods, and lakes, which they inhabit, to visit the dwellings of men. The birds most distinguished for the beauty of their plumage, are met with in the hot and unhealthy districts, and, both serpents and insects, in these situations, increase in size, number, and malignity.

In the cities, the common carrion-vulture may be seen perched upon every house, generally bending over the roof with a sensual and melancholy gaze, in search of some dead animal, upon which it descends with a heavy flapping motion, and immediately picks out the eyes, as the choicest morsel; after which, it and its fellows never leave the body till they have reduced it to the most perfect skeleton. These disgusting birds perform most faithfully the part of scavengers, and, in hot countries, where cleanliness is not regarded, probably contribute considerably toward the health of the inhabitants.


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Rh In the evening, a species of bat, termed by Buffon, the vampyre, or flying dog, of New Spain, (because it sucks the blood of men and animals, while they are asleep, without causing sufficient pain to awaken them;) sometimes enters apartments which are contiguous to orange trees.—During my stay in Guatimala, I killed one in my own room, and had the opportunity of examining the mouth of the animal, through a powerful microscope.

Buffon says, “I have frequently thought it worth while to examine, how it is possible that these animals, should suck the blood of a person asleep, without causing at the same time a pain so sensible as to awake him. Were they to cut the flesh with their teeth, or with their claws, the pain of the bite would effectually rouse any of the human species, however soundly asleep. With their tongue only, is it possible for them to make such minute apertures in the skin, as to imbibe the blood through them, and to open the veins without causing an acute pain. The tongue of the vampyre, I have not had an opportunity to observe; but that of several rousettes (a somewhat different species, found only in Africa, and the southern parts of Asia,) which Mr. Daubenton has attentively examined, seems to indicate the possibility of the fact; it is sharp and full of prickles directed backward, and it appears that


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Rh these prickles or points, from their exceeding minuteness may be insinuated into the pores of the skin, may enlarge them, and may penetrate them so deep, as to command a flow of blood by the continued suction of the tongue. But we can only conjecture upon a fact, of which all the circumstances are imperfectly known to us, and of which some are perhaps exaggerated, or erroneously related by the writers who have transmitted them to us.” Of the mischievous properties of this ugly and deformed animal, there can however be no doubt. To the testimony of M. de la Condamine, referred to by M. Buffon, may be added that of numerous Americans, who have seen it fixed on the neck of mules, and attacking the nostrils of man. The reasoning of M. Buffon, as to the mode in which it effects its purpose, will not hold with regard to the species found in Guatimala; since after a most careful examination, no prickles could be seen upon the tongue. The teeth are remarkably long, and smoothly pointed, and with these there can be no doubt, it opens the vein, employing the tongue merely as a sucker.

The Zorrilla a species of pole cat, sometimes approaches the houses, and emits a smell so fetid, as to be almost insupportable. I have only experienced the odour from a distance, but found it powerful enough to sicken the stomach for some hours.


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 and abundantly to satisfy curiosity. The warrior ants, (as they are termed) are very numerous in some of the provinces. They are about the size of the common ant, red, and singularly powerful. In the order of their movements, and the regularity of their internal government, they may fairly be placed in competition with those of Africa, and like them they are eminently useful in the destruction of other vermin.

On the shores of the Pacific the conchologist will find shells of incomparable beauty, besides numerous marine substances, sponges, and lithophytes, both curious and beautiful; in short every branch of the animal kingdom of Guatimala is abundant in objects of interest.

Nor is the vegetable less productive. Of plants remarkable for their flowers or their fruits, for their roots, leaves, shape, or wood, as well as those useful for their resin, gum, or medicinal properties; perhaps a greater variety cannot be found in any part of the world. The mountains and plains are covered all the year with the most beautiful flowers expanding themselves in wild profusion, and “wasting their sweets upon the desert air;” forty genera of fruits are reckoned to grow spontaneously upon the different hills; the most valuable woods, enormous both in circumference and in height, are lost in the thick forests, and resins and balsams, with


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Rh medicinal herbs, remain neglected and unknown, because no one will take the trouble of collecting them. The cedars in some parts, exceeding five fathoms in circumference, and 100 feet in height; the mahogany-tree falling little short of this immense size; the valuable Palo de Maria, and the incorruptible Guyacan, alike surrounded by immense woods of every other kind of timber, reign in silent majesty, undisturbed by the sound of the woodman's axe.

Amidst almost every production both of tropical and intertropical climes, may be named among grains, maize, producing in some parts three hundred fold, and sometimes two or three harvests a year, wheat, barley, rice, potatoes, greens, and all kinds of culinary vegetables.

Among fruits may be enumerated three species of plantains, four of apples, five of pineapples, five of peaches, three of apricots, ten of jocotes, (a kind of plum) pears, melons, grapes, oranges, figs, cherries, pines, besides about forty others, of which the name alone would convey no idea to an European ear. To these may be added, as productions of the country, bark, sarsaperilla, cinnamon, hellebore, musk, coffee, ginger, cassia, tamarinds, aniseed, Brazil wood, indigo, cocoa, cochineal, vanilla, sugar, flax, tobacco, cotton of various species, pepper, sulphur,


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Rh saltpetre, and a multitude of other articles; while among medicinal plants, probably the greater part of the 1200 described by Hernandez, are to be met with in some one or other of the United Provinces.

With such an extensive catalogue of productions, Guatimala would seem destined to be one of the most prosperous and wealthy of republics. What important changes may be produced by revolving years, it is impossible to foresee, and must be left for the pages of its future history to relate. At present owing to the indolence and ignorance of its population, scarcely any thing is produced in considerable quantities, or brought to full perfection; and the country although rolling in the midst of natural wealth, remains poor, and the mass of its inhabitants wretched.

Of the physical geography of the country, as little can be said as of its natural history. No Humboldt has traversed these regions, and excepting from the statements of natives often strangely inaccurate, no account of the elevations of its mountains or valleys, or of its volcanic phenomena can possibly be collected. The mountains in some places bordering on the Atlantic, in others coasting the Pacific, and again in other situations traversing the middle of the Isthmus, give their own peculiar character to


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Rh the face of the country. Upon their different elevations does the fitness of the soil for its various productions depend; and in crossing them the traveller repeatedly changes a hot climate for a cold and chilling temperature Gold and silver, iron, lead, mercury and sulphur are deposited in considerable quantities within the bowels of the mountains; and granite and porphyry form their prevailing geological feature.

From these rise the various volcanic cones which have at different periods by their eruptions, desolated the lands contiguous to their craters. Besides the three peaked volcan de fuego—situated in the valley of Guatimala, which has at various periods injured or overthrown the old city, and which still emits smoke and sometimes flame;—seven others may be said to continue still in a state of activity. Tajamulco in the province of Quezaltenango, Izalco near Sonzonate, Momotombo and Mazaya in Nicaragua,—St. Vincent and San Salvador in the state of the same name, frequently cast out flames accompanied hy copious discharges of calcined substances.


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Rh Atitan, situated in one of the interior provinces, and near to the lake which bears its name, had remained for many years inactive, when, on the 1st September, 1827, a loud rumbling noise announced the working of this stupendous furnace, which immediately began to vomit out smoke and sand, in such immense quantities, as to darken the sky for several hours. Lights were procured in the neighbouring villages, and prayers offered, till its violence had, in some degree, subsided. This eruption was accompanied by an earthquake, which was severely felt, not only in the neighbourhood, but at a very considerable distance.

The rivers of Guatimala, in proportion to its extent, are considerably more numerous than those of Mexico; but excepting for canoes, they are not generally navigable; not only are they obstructed by bars at the entrance, which render it impossible for any large vessel to pass, but owing to their steep declivity, the currents are so rapid as to render it frequently dangerous to descend, and almost impracticable to oppose the stream in the ascent. The principal are the Lempa, Motagua, Limones, Tinto, Platanos, Slave River, Michatoyat, Mosquito, St. Juan, Pantasma, Xicalapa, Paza, Leones and Viejo. Of these some fall into the Atlantic, and others into the Pacific. The Lempa which is by far the largest, and runs


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Rh chiefly through the province of San Salvador, has 140 yards in breadth at its lowest ebb, and a current exceedingly rapid.

Besides several small lakes, there are three which both for extent and depth deserve more particular notice. The Lake of Nicaragua well known on account of its proposed junction with the Pacific may rank among the largest in the world, and if the long wished for communication between the two oceans should be effected, will become of the utmost importance to the commercial world. The proposals of different companies have been discussed by congress, but no effectual steps have yet been taken for the accomplishment of so desirable an object. The lake of Peten according to Juarros, has twenty-six leagues of circumference, and in some parts is thirty fathoms deep; and Atitan according to the same author, covers eight leagues from east to west, and four from north to south, has its sides precipitous, in depth is fathomless, and although it receives several rivers, has no visible outlet by which the influx is carried off. The water is fresh and so cold that in a few minutes it benumbs and swells the limbs of those who attempt to swim in it. Each of these with numerous others, abound in fish of different kinds; many of them have little islands in the middle of their waters picturesquely wooded, and some of them are inhabited.


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Rh On the banks of some of the rivers as well as on the shores of one or two of the lakes, salt is collected in considerable quantities, and forms in some of the provinces, a considerable branch of trade. Salt springs and sulphureous streams, both hot and cold, are found in the different provinces, and mineral waters, possessing medical properties, exude from the rocks in various parts of the country.

All these things merit the attention of the lovers of science, and make one regret that this interesting and unknown ground has not yet been occupied by some learned traveller, able to favour us with details similar to those we have received of the plains and hills of Anahuac, from the pen of the unwearied Humboldt.

The diseases of the coasts for the most part consist of intermittent fevers, which, when contracted by the inhabitants of the temperate regions, are very difficult to cure, frequently clinging to the sufferer till they produce the most perfect mental debility, and oftentimes idiotcy. The number of idiots and of individuals in other stages of madness is truly melancholy, and of these the greater part have been produced by fevers contracted on the coast. In some of the provinces the inhabitants are dreadfully afflicted with a swelling in the glands of the throat, vulgarly called “güegüecho;” these sometimes grow to an


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Rh enormous size, and when accompanied by idiotcy or extreme imbecility of mind, which is by no means uncommon, they furnish a most humiliating and painful spectacle. These swellings are generally attributed to some deleterious quality in the water, and are considered by the natives as incurable. Mr. Coxe in his travels through Switzerland, observed the same disease to prevail in some districts, and remarks, that there also it was not unfrequently accompanied by extreme mental weakness. Whatever be the cause, the effect is most distressing; and although the United Provinces presented more temptations to the European than they at present do, the thought that the climate, the water, and the diseases most prevalent in the country, all conspire in lowering the tone of the mind, and sapping the foundations of man's noblest faculty, would make the most sanguine pause before choosing it as a permanent residence.


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''Aboriginal Population,—Conquests of Alvarado,—Utatlan,—Palaces, &c. of the King of Quiché,—Languages,—Establishment of the Roman Religion,—Las Casas and the Dominicans,—Population,—Employment,—Mode of Life and Customs,—Taxes,—Physiognomy,—Bodily Construction,—Mental Capacities,—Means of Civilization.''

Guatimala was originally peopled from Mexico, or whether at any remote period of its history it was tributary to that power, are questions involved in too much obscurity to permit a positive conclusion. The dim and imperfect records of these semi-civilized kingdoms leave us in perfect ignorance as to the source from whence the tribes of which they were composed issued, and consequently cannot be expected to inform us in detail of the course which the stream of population took, or in what instances the springs of it might be considered independent one of another.


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Rh The invaluable researches of the Baron de Humboldt have thrown considerable light on the first of these questions. He supposes America to have been peopled by the migration of various tribes from the eastern parts of Asia, and argues, that “in order to conceive that Asiatic tribes established on the table land of Chinese Tartary should pass from the old to the new continent, it is not necessary to have recourse to a transmigration at very high latitudes. A chain of small islands stretches from CoreaKorea [sic] and Japan to the southern cape of the peninsula of Kamschatka, between 33° and 51° of north latitude. The great island of Tchoka, connected with the continent hy an immense sand bank (under the parallel of 52°) facilitates communication between the mouths of the Amour and the Kurile islands. Another archipelago by which the great basin of Behring is terminated on the south, advances from the peninsula of Alaska four hundred leagues towards the west. The most western of the Aleutian islands—is only 144 leagues distant from the eastern coast of Kamschatka; and this distance is also divided into two nearly equal parts by the Behring and Mednoi islands, situated under latitude 55°. Asiatic tribes might have gone by means of these islands from one continent to the other, without going higher on the continent of Asia than the parallel of 55°,


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Rh and by a passage of not more than twenty-four or thirty-six hours. The north-west winds, which during a great part of the year blow in these latitudes, favour the navigation from Asia to America, between latitudes 50° and 60° north.”

The question of the early independence of Guatimala has been defended by Don Domingo Juarros with considerable zeal; and he has brought forward various arguments to prove that his country never was subjected to the Mexican sovereigns, although he acknowledges that a very considerable emigration took place from that kingdom at a very early period. Leaving this unimportant question to be decided by those who take more interest in the matter than strangers can be expected to feel, we shall try to gather from the early chronicles of Guatimala the true state of civilization at the period of the conquest. In this inquiry the researches of the worthy priest above alluded to, will be found highly valuable.

The romantic history of the noble Incas of Peru, and the sympathy which, notwithstanding the tyrannical character of the man, has been excited for the fate of the unhappy Montezuma, has thrown a more than common interest about the aborigines of the new continent, which makes us


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Rh anxious to know how far the degree of advancement to which they had arrived, was local or universal. In point of civilization the Indians of Guatimala do not seem to have been far removed from their northern or more southern neighbours

It appears that while Cortes was pursuing his conquests in Mexico, civil war was raging in Guatimala between two of the most powerful nations of the country, the Kachiquels, and the Zutugils. The fame of his exploits having spread far and wide, the king of the Kachiquels sent deputies to him, asking his assistance. and offering submission to Spain. Cortes immediately despatched Pedro Alvarado, with three hundred Spaniards, and a large body of Mexican auxiliaries to subdue the kingdom, and render it tributary to the Spanish crown. He arrived in the beginning of the year 1524, and immediately commenced an attack upon the Quichés, the most numerous and warlike of the thirty tribes, which at this time inhabited the kingdom. These different nations like their Mexican countrymen, were too jealous of each other, to unite against the common enemy, and one by one fell under the “heroic Spaniards unrelenting sword.” Notwithstanding this disunion, the resistance made in some parts was very formidable, and if the accounts of the numbers engaged be not grossly exaggerated, Alvarado and his troops performed


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Rh feats, equal to any that marked the career of Cortes. We are told that the king of the Quichés, joined by various other states, mustered on the plain of Tzaccaha 232,000 warriors, who defended by entrenchments, and surrounded by fosses, lined with poisoned stakes, were completely routed by the comparatively insignificant force of the Spaniards, and in six successive actions were defeated with tremendous slaughter.

The mind sickens, at following the bloody track of these remorseless conquerors, and shrinks from the contemplation of the multitude of these poor wretehes, who unaccustomed to the use of gunpowder, were penned up as sheep for the slaughter, and mown down by thousands. The rest of the war consisted only of a repetition of similar scenes, and by the middle of the year the country might be considered as subdued.

The account of the city of Utatlan, the capital of the Quiché kingdom, quoted by Juarros from Fuentes, an ancient historian, would if it may be depended upon, lead us to believe that the Indians of Guatimala were little if at all inferior to those of Mexico or Peru.

He describes the city as being “surrounded by a deep ravine, that formed a natural fosse, leaving only two very narrow roads or entrances to it, both of which were so well defended by the castle, as to render the city impregnable. The centre


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Rh was occupied by the royal palace, which was surrounded by the houses of the nobility; the extremities were inhabited by the plebeians. The streets were very narrow, but the place was so populous as to enable the king to draw from it alone, no less than 72,000 combatants, to oppose the Spaniards. It contained many very sumptuous edifices. The most superb of them was a seminary, where between five and six thousand children were educated; these were all maintained and provided for, at the expense of the royal treasury, and their instruction was superintended by seventy masters, and professors.” The grand palace surpassed every other edifice, and in the opinion of Torquemada, it could compete in opulence with that of Montezuma, or of the Incas. According to his account, it contained distinct apartments and divisions for troops, for the king, for the queen and concubines, and for the royal family with saloons, baths, gardens and menageries, all in a shape of sumptuous magnificence. From him we learn that their traditions extended during a line of twenty monarchs, before the arrival of the Spaniards; that the crown was hereditary; that a council existed of twenty four grandees; that the principal towns were governed by lieutenents, and that every office was filled by nobles, the greatest care being taken to preserve noble blood unsullied; to


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Rh mixture, it was decreed that if any cacique or noble, should marry one of plebeian blood, he should be degraded for ever, and all his descendants be rendered incapable of bearing office. By the penal laws the king could be tried by his nobles. High treason, adultery and rape, were punished with death. Murder by being thrown from a high rock, robbery by fine, and arson by death, because says the law fire has no bounds. Sacrilege subjected to death and degradation of the family. Prisoners if they confessed were immediately sentenced, but if the charge was denied they were subjected to cruel torture.

From all these statements, allowing for a certain portion of fiction which may have been mixed up with facts, it is at least evident that at the period of the conquest, the inhabitants were far more advanced in the state of moral being, than the grade they now occupy. It is equally evident from the numbers brought into the field, that they must have been far more numerous than at present; since by a census taken by order of the king of Spain in 1778, the whole population only amounted to 797,214.

In the variety of its languages, Guatimala presents a still more singular phenomenon than Mexico; not less than twenty-five, according to Juarros, being still spoken. The exact correctness of this statement it is difficult to prove; but


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Rh it is certain that a very considerable variety exists, differing so widely, that the people of one tribe cannot understand those of another. That some of the twenty-five are only corrupted dialects of the same language, there can be little doubt, having perhaps as near a resemblance to their parent, as some years ago those of Lancashire and Derbyshire bore to the English tongue; but in how many instances this may be the case, it is impossible to say. Of the Kachiquel and Quiché, manuscript grammars have been prepared by different friars,—but they appear to be very imperfect, and without lexicons are useless. The Spaniards have taken considerable pains to make Castilian the general medium of communication among the Indians, and have succeeded to a very considerable extent; almost; all of them being able to explain themselves in that tongue, although considerably corrupted by the mixture of Indian words.

The whole of the native languages are exceedingly guttural in their pronunciation, and in their construction are formed by what Humboldt terms “aggregation,” having no inflexion of the root. He says, “nothing strikes Europeans more, than the excessive length of the words. This length does not always depend on their being compounded as in the Greek, the German and the Sanscrit,—but on the manner of forming the


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Rh substantive, the plural or the superlative. A kiss is called in the Mexican language, Tetennamiquiliztli; a word formed from the verb tennamiqui to embrace, and the additive particles te and litzli. The most remarkable example he adds, I have met with of a real composition of words, is found in the word amatlacuilolitquitcatlaxtlahuilli which signifies, the reward given to the messenger who carries a paper on which is painted tidings. This word which forms by itself an Alexandrine line, contains Amatl, paper (of the Agave,) cuiloa to paint or trace hieroglyphics; and tlaxtlahuilli, the wages or salary of a workman.”

Like the rest of their countrymen, the Indians of Guatimala were idolaters, which soon excited in the minds of the bigoted Spaniards the same chivalric spirit that had distinguished their course in Mexico, while fighting for the honour of the Virgin Mary, and the extension of the Roman apostacy. The Pope and the mass book floated along the stream of blood, and superseded idolatries more harmless perhaps than their own, to substitute the forms of a worship dazzling to the eye, and eminently dangerous, inasmuch as the corruptions of truth are infinitely more difficult to eradicate than errors founded on pure ignorance without system or object. Crowds of monks followed the track of the conquerors, and


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Rh gradually rivetted the chains which had been thrown over the land at the point of the sword.

No tradition exists which leads to the supposition that human victims were ever offered here to idols, and the general mildness of the people would seem to repel the thought. Philip II. ordered a correct narrative of the habits and peculiarities of the inhabitants while in a state of idolatry, to be written by the resident priests, but no traces now exist of such a work if it ever was prepared.

But while shuddering at the barbarities exercised under the name of religion, it is pleasant to record a noble and enlightened exception. According to Remesal, Bartholemew Las Casas and others of the Dominican order settled in Guatimala in the year 1536. “Las Casas who was vicar of the convent, had some years before written a treatise which he called 'De unico vocationis modo,' in which he attempted to prove, and with great erudition, that divine providence had instituted the preaching of the gospel as the only means of conversion to the christian faith; and that to harass by wars, those whose conversion is sought for, is the means of preventing rather than accomplishing the desired object. This reasoning was deemed fallacious and laughed at, and the author advised to put in practice what he had preached in theory. Las Casas


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Rh accepted the proposal, and fixed upon a province from which the Spaniards had been three times driven back in their attempts to conquer it. This region was afterwards called Vera Paz, because while the Spaniards were unable to subdue it by their arms, it yielded to the mild persuasion of a few zealous ecclesiastics. Las Casas previous to commencing his undertaking entered into an agreement with the governor that no Spaniard should reside in the provinces subdued for five years.

This arrangement concluded, the Dominicans composed hymns in the language of the natives, in which they described the creation of the world, the fall of Adam, the redemption of mankind, and the principal mysteries of the life, passion and death of the Saviour,” (Remesal lib. 3. cap. 15, 18.) “These were learned by some converted Indians, who traded with the provinces they wished to subdue. The chief cacique of the country having heard them sung, asked those who had repeated them to explain more in detail the meaning of things so new to him. The Indians excused themselves on account of their inability to perform it correctly, saying they could be explained only by the fathers who had taught them; and these were so kind, that if he would send for them, they would gladly come and instruct them in every thing. The cacique


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Rh was pleased with the information, and sent one of his brothers with many presents to entreat that they would come to make him acquainted with every thing contained in the songs of the Indian merchants. The Fathers received the ambassador with great kindness and much satisfaction to themselves, and determined that one of their number should return with him to the cacique. The chief went to the entrance of the village to meet the missionary, treated him with great veneration, and after having been made to comprehend the mysteries of the new faith, he fervently adopted it, burnt his idol, and became a preacher to his own subjects.”

After this glorious triumph of peaceful persuasion, over force and cruelty, the fathers returned to Guatimala, and the following year resumed their operations with similar results. In numerous instances they succeeded in collecting the Indians into villages, and brought them to form themselves into societies, and submit to be governed by reasonable laws.

Impatient of this slow though certain process, the Spanish governor despatched troops to the neighbouring provinces, and in some instances subdued the natives; but in others the instant the troops were withdrawn, the villages were abandoned, and the roads blocked up by the Indians.


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Rh who concealed themselves in the woods and mountains.

Of the more recent labours of the college, appointed for the conversion of infidels (Coll. Prop. de Fid.) we have no account. At the present day, by far the greater part of the natives are under the spiritual dominion of the Romish church; but on the coasts several tribes still remain entirely unsubdued. In many parts of the interior also, the Indians have not embraced Christianity, and as soon as they are visited in one place, to avoid further importunity they remove their wives, children, canoes, &c. to another, where they remain until again assaulted by similar solicitations. Even among those who profess subjection, idols are very often concealed and adored in secret, and all the exertions of the clergy have been unable to eradicate their affection for them.

Nor is it to be wondered at. With them idolatry, and freedom are synonymous, while Christianity is associated only with slavery and despotism. Conversion to the catholic faith, requires no change of heart; a willingness to resign old for new ceremonies, and to substitute an image of the Virgin in the room of one equally senseless, is all that is asked, and if a few prayers can be recited, popery is content to leave the superstition of the heart undisturbed,


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Rh and Satan's throne unmolested. But from the confession of their own bishops even this is with difficulty accomplished. One of them says, “he found the neophytes so little improved in their knowledge of the Christian faith, as scarcely to be able to repeat the prayers in an intelligible manner.” Their Latin as might well be expected, was difficult to understand, and he says, “the natives made it half Latin, half romance.”

In the review of these strange proceedings, the mind is struck with admiration at the noble and dignified conduct of Las Casas and his dominican brethren. At a time when persecution was the error of the age, they boldly rose above the prejudices of education, and reverting at once to the simplest principles of Christianity, preached, and practised doctrines which many of their successors even in the nineteenth century have yet to learn. Nor did they do it without cost. To effect their labour of love they endured hardships, suffering famine, sickness and injuries, and in many cases sighing for martyrdom, cheerfully resigned themselves to a cruel death. Of such may it not be said, that erecting on a good foundation, “wood, hay, stubble,” when in the day that shall be revealed “the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is,” though theirs may be burnt and the builders suffer loss, yet, “they themselves shall be saved; yet so as by fire.”


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Rh The absence of all statistical details, renders it impossible to state with any degree of correctness, the proportion which the unmixed Indians bear to the coloured or white population. It differs considerably in the different provinces; and as no data exists, on which a calculation could be founded, conjecture would be idle. Probably the proportion will not differ widely from that of Mexico, where they form in some provinces two-fifths, and in others, three-fifths of the whole population. The greater proportion of these live in villages, built after the Spanish manner, with the church in the centre, before it the square, with the cabildo or town house, and thes streets crossing each other at right angles: these employ themselves in various ways; some grow maize and vegetables for the markets, others manufacture mats and baskets, or are employed mechanically, while others gain trifling sums as porters or carriers in the neighbouring towns.

A second portion live on haciendas or farms; some regularly employed in trapíches, or in agriculture, and others dwelling on the estate by permission of the owner, where they cultivate a little maize for their own subsistence, and pay a species of rent, in produce, for the use of the land, besides which they are bound to render occasional gratuitous services to the owner. A third division may be said to consist of those who


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Rh are scattered over the face of the country, living either in solitary ranchos or huts, or in long and straggling villages; these grow sufficient maize for their own use, which with plantains supplies their necessities, and permits them to remain in a state of barbarism altogether secluded from society.

A fourth class answer to the “lazzaroni” of Italy, sleeping at night under the piazzas of the squares, and lounging in idleness and wretchedness a great part of the day; these also, although a considerable body, find occasional employment as porters, since every white, and almost every coloured man, would think himself degraded by carrying a burden. The two first classes are governed by officers chosen from among themselves, who have the power of imprisonment, and not unfrequently grossly abuse their trust, by making their authority an instrument of oppression. The two latter from their roving life, are under no system of government, and unless they commit some notorious crime, are unmolested.

At a first glance, the whole body would seem involved in the deepest wretchedness, but this is more apparent than real. The only dress of the men consists of a cloth round the middle made of pita, and the women merely wear a light cotton


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Rh dress, from the middle downwards. Their houses are destitute of all furniture, excepting it be a mat, or at the best a small hammock; the greater part of them sleep on the floor, with the head covered and the feet bare, and if they use any thing for a pillow, it is seldom better than a brick or a stone. Their food, generally maize prepared in different ways, and sometimes a little meat, seasoned with chile, a kind of pepper, is always spread upon the ground, and eaten with their hands. The children know no better cradle than the ground, and when they are not slung at the back of the mother, crawl or run naked about the hut or fields.

Thus ignorant not only of the luxuries, but even of what would seem the commonest necessaries of life, they know no wants, and however poor and miserable they appear to an European eye, having their hut, their maize, and especially if to this they can add a little spirits, they consider themselves abundantly rich. When oppressed by the alcalde, they fly to the priest, who hears all their grievances, and generally sees them redressed. The women suckle their children with great care, and rarely trust them with another, carrying them at their backs whenever they have occasion to go out.

It has been remarked, that it is very rare to meet with any instance of deformity amongst


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Rh them, and the observation is correct; but whether this arises from any favourable conformation of body in the Indian, or whether it may not rather be attributed to the fact, that deformed children being generally weakly, seldom survive without a more tender treatment than savages can give, may be somewhat doubtful. The male children are chiefly employed in cutting and collecting wood, and as they grow up become tillers of the ground. All the Indians are exceedingly fond of bathing, especially in warm springs, in which many of them will immerse themselves several times a day. Others use what may be termed the hot air bath. This is a species of large round oven, into which, when heated, they creep, and soon obtain a profuse perspiration over the whole body; while in this state, they suddenly plunge themselves into the nearest cold stream, and appear to receive great pleasure from the shock, never suffering any injury by the practice.

Their marriages and funerals are conducted according to the rites of the Romish church, but to these they add various ceremonies of their own. A marriage is celebrated by savage dances to harsh and inharmonious music; and the funerals present a scene of nightly revel and drunkenness, somewhat similar to a wake among the lower orders of Irish.


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Rh With any kind of procession they are highly delighted. When the holy oil is carried to the villages, it is preceded by a drum, and escorted by a troop of Indians. The feasts of the church are observed chiefly by dances, and the discharge of sky-rockets, and other fireworks, an amusement of which they are passionately fond; and as the manufacture of gunpowder is a government monopoly, the practice is of course not discouraged.

Some instances have occurred, in which Indians have died possessed of considerable property; but of late years they have not had opportunities for acquiring wealth, and seldom provide either for age or sickness. As buyers they are cautious, and very much afraid of being deceived, but as sellers they are exceedingly anxious to impose. The men who bring wood, or grass for the cattle, invariably ask three times as much as they mean to take, and I have seen a quantity of charcoal, for which twenty rials was obstinately demanded, at length purchased of the same individual for five rials.

During the Spanish government, a personal tax was imposed upon every Indian, of four rials; by the payment of which, they were exempted from all other imposts, and were not liable to serve in the army. At the revolution this tax was repealed, and they became subject to the duties imposed on the rest of the


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Rh. The poor creatures by no means approved the change, and for some time brought their rials as usual, requesting they might remain undisturbed. Whatever might be the intention of the repealers, the policy of the measure has certainly proved bad. The idle are now exempt from the annual tribute, and the more industrious who bring the produce of their gardens to market, are exposed to heavy contributions. Always suspicious, they dread every thing that is new, and when vaccination was attempted to be introduced amongst them, they resisted it most determinately, flying with their children to the woods and mountains. Every effort to persuade them it was harmless, was ineffectual; and the attempt was finally abandoned.

To describe the Indian either physiognomically or craniologically, is exceedingly difficult. With the exception of the copper coloured skin, the smooth and strong black hair, high cheek bone, and eye somewhat turned, which may be considered universal characteristics, the variations are innumerable. The forehead although never prominent like that of the negro, and generally very retiring, is in many spacious; and some of the women have by no means, what would be termed bad ones. The inclination of the facial line is widely different in individuals. Thick lips although general, can by no means be called


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Rh universal; and while some of the men are altogether destitute of beard, others have a moderate proportion, and not unfrequently wear mustachios. An expression of countenance in which cunning and melancholy are singularly blended, gives a mysterious air to every look and movement,—but no symptom of ferocity is observable. The women generally look older than they really are, and are mostly given to volubility. The men on the other hand, excepting when under the influence of intoxication, are very silent, and do not show their years on the countenance. Some of them attain a very considerable age; and although the hair with the greater number does not change with years, I have seen instances where it has become nearly white. Their limbs are mostly nervous, and their bodily shape somewhat square and short. Although incapable of violent effort, they possess a toughness which enables them to endure fatigues that would soon kill the stoutest European. The loads they carry over the mountains for the most trifling remuneration, are truly surprising.

But with all this capacity for endurance, the want of fire and a manly spirit, often makes them appear exceedingly pusillanimous. It is by no means uncommon to see them after a quarrel, weeping like children over the slightest wound,—while their timidity in any time of public alarm


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Rh is excessive. This characteristic however, will not apply to the unsubdued natives on the coast; an energy sometimes frightful often distorts their features, while the countenance of the interior Indian is seldom disturbed by violent passions.—This striking difference, does not appear tochave been produced by any alteration in their mode of life since the conquest; it is evident that it belonged to them before that period. During the war carried on by the Spaniards, in their attempts to subdue the inhabitants of the coast, some instances of resistance occurred truly astonishing. In one part (after having entrenched themselves in strong places on a mountain which for some time, they defended with the greatest bravery) finding resistance hopeless, and being exhausted by fatigue, and want of provisions, the greatest part of them with their wives and children, precipitated themselves from the highest part of the rock, into the river below and perished. Nor is this account incredible, since a similar determination has been shown by some of the Indians, during the war of independence in ChiliChile [sic] and Colombia, while acting as auxiliaries to the Spanish troops. The hatred of one tribe was so great towards the Patriots, that their extermination was determined upon by the independent army, and the whole of them, including women and children were put to


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Rh the sword. Their resistance was most desperate, and in one instance, when the lance of a soldier had passed through the body of the Indian, he still continued fighting, and would have killed his opponent but for other assistance. Near these dwelt another tribe possessing similar feelings, and it was determined to send them to Peru, in the hope that they would make good soldiers, when away from their native hills; but from the time they were placed on board the transport, they refused to eat, and only said they were resolved to die. Owing to their repeated mutinies, great numbers of them were shot, while others threw themselves overboard, and scarcely any arrived at the place of their destination. The facts I have on the authority of an officer, who was engaged in the service and who was an eye witness to the first of these dreadful scenes.

Of the capacities the Indians may possess, for the improvement of a superior education, it is difficult to speak, because the experiment has not been fairly tried. In the convents may be found some who have entered as monks or nuns, and they display no inferiority to the others. At different times some who appeared to display talent, have been educated at the university, and it is said that they proved themselves equal, if not superior to any by whom they were surrounded, and two especially distinguished themselves by


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Rh the quickness of their apprehension, and the solidity of their judgment, but after a few years all these became the victims of intoxication, under the influence of which, they quickly relapsed into barbarism.

In the imitative arts they certainly excel, and under proper direction, make valuable assistants both in plain building, and ornamental architecture, while the various waxen figures they mould and expose for sale, prove how closely they can copy any object they may have seen. Of imagination they appear to be totally destitute, and never leave the beaten track to form any thing novel or original, nor have they that taste for the beautiful, which the Mexicans so singularly possess.

It is said that ancient monuments, the ruins of their former greatness, still exist; but in situations remote from the capital, and at which in the present disturbed state of the country, it is difficult to arrive. Juarros gives descriptions of many of these from Fuentes, but it is evident that he had never seen them. The Spaniards and white creoles, appear to know little or nothing of their localities, and insist that a great part of Fuentes' descriptions are fictitious. Still the search would be interesting, and the report of an intelligent traveller valuable; inasmuch as the slightest ruin would in some degree tend to illustrate the true