hal, See re eh. Oe Aire 0 OG: 1 8 . HRA] i"! 4 ty 1 Sanh ' liltgiley cd Pata Bs i { ‘ ANG? A Ws K rch "} iy ‘ ews Wanye ye rahe OORT AR My rat ‘ ’ y DANA} Polk APY )* Wate rues ha \ } ul i ete ab thy } : H ) tyteh yg) ad ' Matai hee CRs any ‘ tere ye we Tym : ae 3%, eS ee a at a —_ p toss ae Pan SS A ho a were eS we Keer % eae a VOR hae ate ay dy of ~ — i — a ian ee oye ee, pois i $i ih ae 5 Bu eee ae = Pets es ~ he eecus Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2010 with funding from University of Toronto http://www.archive.org/details/nstimehri10roya No TIMEHRI : THE JOURNAL OF | je Rona Aavicttra \e fonmerca Society OF BRITISH GUIANA. Edited by ... cis ... JAMES Ropway, F.L.S, VOL. . (New Series) 1896, Demérara: J. THOMSON, 1896. London Agent: E. STANFORD, 26 & 27 Cockspur Street; London. \ xe PRINTED AT THE “ARGOSY” PRESS, DEMERAR Contents of Volume X.—(New Series.) A ee gi PAPERS. PAGE Multiple Evaporation, WiLL1am Prick ABELL ... I The Indian Policy of the Dutch, James Ropway 13 ~ Queer Homes, C. A, Litoyp 36 Note on Berbice Bats, C. G. Youne oy 44 Venezuelan International Law, N. Darnei. Dale 47 India- Rubber Collection at Para, J. A. CoELHo 87 Records of old Barbados, G. H. Hawraynr 93 Tea Planting, H. MEsservy 119 Tropical Farming, G. N. Lorp ... 123 Schomburgkiana as 132 Ships and Shipping, Tati cubauae ISI Other Times, other Manners, There Ropway 223 Migratory Birds in British Guiana, }. J. QuELCH 258 A Literary Half-hour, W. A. es Bie 280 Tobacco Cultivation and Manufacture, H. B, re Ree 289 Some Notes upon Fly Fishing in British Guiana, ‘Oxon’ — 303 Up the Cuyuni in 1837, Witt1am Hituouse 310 On the Potaro,’C. A. Lion — ... 335 Early English Colonies in Trinidad, N. ‘Darwen Davis 357 Report or MEETINGS oF THE SociETy.— Addresses of President ... ae Ee 176, 432 Agricultural Board an ‘hed ar . 206 Agricultural Committee, Reports ies 196, 207 Analyses ... whe ae ue ... 197, 207, 402 Batteria for Soils ... oe side aoe 206, 212 Books, Questions ... ae 185, 191 Cane Farming we 2h Ret 418, 424 Coffee Growing 215 Columbian Exposition pares «» 397, 399, 405, 416 Committee of Correspondence, Reports, 190, 204, 397, 401, 406, 422 vi. Donations 185, 195, 202, 205, 218, 221, 396, 399, 406, 417, 426, 440 Elections of Members 176, 186, 196, 204, 206, 395, 397, 406, 422, 427 Elections of Office-bearers a) ate 184, 436 Government Communications 185, 187, 192, 202, 215, 416 Horticultural Show 192, 202, 397, 401, 406, 423, 429 India-Rubber Cultivation aS rhe 217, 220% Jute 3 ade, Gy eng = aA 4.25 Library Catalogue se ae see 202, 395 Loan of “ Challenger ” Reports ... one 295, 399 Members in Arrears ae ee ree 211 Motions ... Re af aa .-. 186) 20t,200 Mutual Trade between British Possessions 186 Navy League ip Ess ie. “ee 211, 219 Office-Bearers for 1896 ... A eee 184 Office-Bearers for 1897 ... se see 437 Paris Exhibition, 1900 vie a 416, 422 Papers read and discussed 185,103, 2igaeee Polarisation Me ae bse 184, 194 President’s Addresses... 18 at 176, 432 President’s Letter ts st - 207 Prize Essay es ip Ne .-- 395, 398, 416 Ramie ae Aes fe Ast ES 418 Rice Company ... va HE ae 202 Sugar Conference As as bas 430 Tennessee Exhibition ... at he 417, 422 Thiselton-Dyer’s letter... sah ys 199, 204 Timbers ... et wih Ae ww» 184 420,427 Tobacco Cultivation os «ws 213;.22% 305, 608 Treasurer’s Financial Statement .-. 184, 186, 188 Vice-Patron iat a “ts sek 204 ‘* Multiple Evaporation. ”’ By William Price Abell, Wh.Sc., Assoc. M. Inst. C.E. mA INCE the efficient cycle of evaporation intro- duced by RILLIEUX in 1830, or more cor- re€tly speaking by PECQUEUR in 1829, no one appears to have put forward a satisfaétory expla- nation of the unequal distribution of heat between the units of multiple evaporators, and, as clearly pointed out in Mr. SCARD’S interesting paper on the subjeét, we are not yet in possession of all, or even sufficient faéts and data on which to base a satisfactory theory. With our present knowledge of this subje&t we are very much in the same position with regard to a satis- fa€&tory explanation of the behaviour of ** Multiple Evapo- ration” that Engineers were, for a hundred years after HORNBLOWER in 1781 introduced his Compound Engine, before finding a theory that satisfaétorily ex- plained its established efficiency. It is now a matter of history that only a little over ten years since, was data available to prove that the efficiency of the Compound Engine was due to the reduétion of the variation of pressure and temperature in each cylinder, this not only reducing the amount of liquification but by re-evaporating A 2 _ TIMEHRI. the condensed steam which took place in the high pres- sure cylinder, it was enabled to do useful work in the cylinder of lower pressure instead of passing direét to the condenser. This is a digression which you will tolerate seeing the analogy in the old difficulty of establishing a satisfaétory explanation of the behaviour of heat in Compound Engines and our still existing want of a satisfa€tory ex- planation of the behaviour of heat in multiple evaporators. Before proceeding further it is advisable to clearly survey the ground we stand on, and state the beneficial results we expe from the evolution of a satisfaétory theory. First. Taking the only true standard of efficiency ; viz., work done for fuel used, there is no doubt whatever that as much is being got out of the present cycle as is possible, and that until a new cycle is introduced, (this not probable), the most we can expeét is improvement in small details of construétion that will reduce the first cost and upkeep of the apparatus ; but which cannot mate- rially affe€t the economical work of a multiple evaporator from a fuel point of view. Second. We can look for cheaper evaporators that will require less to keep in order, by obtaining data that will enable manufaéturers to eliminate the deleterious gases before they either monopolise a portion of useful heating surface; or to damaging corrosion to the tubes and pumps. With regard to the first clause; we well recognise that so long as CARNOT’S principle is fulfilled in RIL- LIEUX’S cycle, the amount of work done will depend on the constant temperature at which heat is received and © MULTIPLE EVAPORATION.” 3 at which rejeéted ; no matter what difference there is in the details, or whether film or ordinary evaporation is adopted. The following faéts from a€tual praétice, taken from estates making mostly yellow sugar, will illustrate this. On Aurora estate there is a triple built to an old design in 1883, containing 3,000 square feet of heating surface, having in the centre of each calandria an 8-inch circulating pipe, and 12-inch vapour pipes (with no pro- vision for circulation) conneéting the vessels at one spot in each calandria; the syrup is taken off with a vacuum montejus, its usual evaporation is 3 lbs. of water per square foot of heating surface, and compared with more modern evaporators looks obsolete and defec- tive; but as a matter of faé, from a fuel and upkeep point of view, this old fashioned triple with tortuous passages will compare more than favourably with the best work of the most modern evaporators in this colony. The only disadvantage appears to be in the large amount of heating surface embodied, and consequently high first cost of the apparatus. At Perseverance a modern evaporator having 18-inch circulating pipes, and efficient divided 18-inch steam passages, also at Anna Fegina, where the triple embo- dies Mr. CHAPMAN’S well thought out improvements in circulation; double the work per square foot of heating surface is done; but the fuel cost for work done is prac- tically the same, The successful working of the first “ Yaryan” erected here led many into expense and difficulty through ex- peéting fuel economies from this and other film evapora- tors that were quite impossible ; the writer well remembers A2 4 TIMEHRI. Pa iiek TNO NOE Ae Ue Le UBER LAB Sat AER eT at that time often pointing out that the internal econo- mies of film evaporation would not admit of economies not already obtained in other good and much simpler evaporators. The same remarks hold good with regard to the vexed but simple question of the economy of film and water tube boilers, versus boilers of the ordinary type. Other cases that are legion might be instanced to show that so long as we conform with CARNOT’S law and RILLIEUX’S cycle, the evaporation per square foot of heating surface is in no way conneéted with fuel economy, and that until some one introduces a more perfeét cycle, the ground left unturned for us to cultivate and improve, is very small indeed. With regard to the second paragraph, we all recognise that invariably a deleterious aétive corroding gas is given off; to carry this away in the old evaporators separate pipes often conneéted the top of the calandrias to the calandria pump pipes; this in all cases under observation has proved useless; the far better plan is that instanced by Mr. CORNISH, viz., conne€ting the tops of the calan- drias dire&t with the main pump. However, unless this is done in a manner to get the condensed gas well diluted with the injeétion water, the pumps are soon damaged ; the writer well remembers a case where by attending to these faéts the main triple pumps, instead of wearing out after incessant trouble every three years, now give no trouble whatever and show but little wear. Also another case where by designing a pump with no internal bolts, having a combined air vessel and receiver containing lime for the calandria water to pass through, no trouble has been experienced this last six years. The other day * MULTIPLE EvAPORATION.” 5 a friend made the following novel and probably good suggestion; to draw the deleterious gas from the top of the calandrias into, and discharge from separate small vacuum receivers. Why the calandria water from some cane juice is more vicious than others is a mystery, this difference is well illustrated by the following examples taken from yellow sugar fa€tories. On both Aurora and Perseverance, wrought iron conneétions are partly used to carry the calandria water to the pumps, these pumps are made of cast iron with wrought iron valve guards and nuts (these are pra€tically as perfect to-day as when ereéted) in the former case twelve, and in the latter case four years ago ; corroded tubes and other parts of the triple apparatus have never been experienced on these estates, see the sample tube (A) cut from the Aurora evaporator after twelve years’ work; you will notice that it is in praétically good con- dition for another twelve years run. On the other hand, there are estates on which we too well recognise the destructive aétivity of the calandria vapour and its very definite lines of ative corrosion and destru€tion, inva- riably on the top of the calandrias as pointed out by Mr. CORNISH, and particularly on the side remote from the entrance of the vapour. For instance, the triple effet tubes of both Zaymouth Manor and Hampton Court, have during eight years been corroded twice in the parts of the calandria’s remote from the vapour entrance ; no longer ago than to-day two W. I. stay rods (D) and (E) were taken out, these during only a few months’ work have been corroded from one inch down to half-an-inch in diameter ; just one-half the original area. These rods 6 TIMEHRI. are so interesting and illustrate the foregoing so clearly that a piece has been cut off and sent for your observa- tion; a sketch, Fig. 1, has also been made, on which it will be noticed that the corrosion extends exaétly one and a half inches from the top tube plate down, and that beyond that the iron shows only one-sixteenth of an inch corrosion, the zone of aétive gas being clearly and dis- tinétly shown, the bottom of the rod in contaét with the water was a little more corroded than the centre of the rod, but nothing like the top part. Tubes (B and F) were cut from triples after three years’ work, these also show plainly the effeét of the active top corroding zone. Tube (€) is another similar example, except that it was originally tinned, in this case the corroding zone is quite as marked, besides this there are pittings and longitu- dinal grooves also corroded in, doubtless these practical examples will be interesting to chemists, who by letting light on the subject and giving engineers an antidote will confer a boon on planters. In the two cases under consideration the copper water pipes have been renewed oftener, as a matter of faét some 24 inch wrought iron gas pipe, used as a tempo- rary water pipe, was eaten out repeatedly in three days, whilst on a neighbouring estate with praétically a dupli- cate evaporator and exactly the same process of manu- fa€ture and chemicals used, a wrought iron pipe has been satisfa€torily used for years ; these are facts. Will some one explain the cause? The vapour is derived from the cane juice after it leaves the eliminators ; the most aétive is given off in the third or last vessel of the evaporator; on some estates it is light and harmless, whilst on other estates the cane juice, though treated in “ MULTIPLE EVAPORATION.” 7 an exaétly similar manner, gives off a destru€tive, vicious, corrosive gas. Having so far dwelt on the benefits to be derived from a more comprehensive knowledge and data of evaporators we will proceed with the points raised by Mr. LUBBOCK in 1883, and Mr. SCARD in his paper before this Society. That there is not an equal division of temperature between the units of a multiple evaporator we all recog- nise, but so far cannot give a satisfactory explanation of the why or wherefore. Has not the diathermancy of the various vapours, that is, their transparency to heat, much to do with the work of evaporators, and the unequal distribution and require- ments of heat that we observe in the a€tual working of multiple evaporators dealing with cane juice ? Although the adiathermancy of substances is well- known to you, perhaps it will not be out of place to give a striking instance of it experienced by the writer. At *‘ Joppa,” in the gardens of the late Mr. JENNER, there is a glass summer house that admits the full light of the sun; but its heat is prevented from penetrating by the adiathermanous character of water with which the glass is covered, this produces a phenomenal and curious cool- ness to persons inside, although exposed to the full glare of the sun. MELLONI has shown clearly that water is adiather- manous, and this explains Mr. CORNISH’S observation that the calandria water from one vessel does not deliver up all the heat in passing through the next below. Hence the doubtful praétical economy of passing the corrosive calandria water from one vessel through the next below. Again, from MELLONI’S experiments we know that 8 - TIMEHRI. steam and air are diathermanous, whilst ammonia vapour is adiathermanous, and interferes to a very con- siderable extent with heat waves. For an explanation of the phenomena of temperatures in a multiple evapo- rator it is more than probable that we must consider the adiathermancy and varying specific heats of ammonia and other gases given off under conditions of density, temperature and pressure, which we know, but the cause of which we are ignorant. For instance, going back to calandria tubes corroding at their tops, and this taking place most aétively in the third vessel, the ation being invariably most severe on the side remote from the entrance of the vapour; these are faéts, and reasoning from these faé€ts the following conclusions present themselves :— (a.) The Calandrias contain two or more very distiné& gases or vapours. (b.) These gases or vapours separate, and locate and appropriate whole or parts of zones suitable to their charaéters. (c.) The destru€tive gases are the lighter. (d.) The light and most destru€tive gases are given off in the third vessel, where the density and vacuum is the highest and the temperature the lowest. And where the difference of temperature is greatest, this latter (apart from aé€tual observation), is one third more than one would expeét. (e). Different cane juice under exaétly similar chemical treatment gives off very different gases. With regard to paragraph (a), the writer has not on hand at the present moment an analysis of calandria water ; chemists and scientists tell us that these gases are “ MULTIPLE EVAPORATION.” 9 ammoniacal compounds, and that ammonia is adiather- manous whilst steam is diathermanous. Is it not rational to conclude that these gases, separated from the steam and colleéted in blocks, and also the remainder partly mixed with steam may bring about a totally different effe€&t to what would be obtained from pure steam? A trial of the condition and behaviour of an evaporator dealing with water would let much light on the point. In paragraph (d) we have an apparent anomaly very difficult to account for, particularly when we consider that ammoniacal gases boil at two-thirds of the tempera- ture required to boil water. This particularly calls for our consideration, for in the writer’s limited experience it appears rational to conclude that the light gases should be given off in the eliminators, particularly on estates where yellow sugar is made, and the juice retained a considerable time under the boiling a€tion of high pres- sure steam. Again, if not all liberated in the eliminator, one would expeét to find the lighter gases given off in the first vessel of the multiple evaporator. Such is not the case. We all know that it is in the second vessel, at a temperature of 180° F., and a vacuum of 15” that these light gases are most a€tively given off, and passing over to the third vessel distin€tly separate and appro- priate spots and blocks to themselves, mostly at the top, and usually at the side remote from the entrance of the vapour to that calandria, It is the wandering about of these blotches or blocks of ammoniacal or similar gases that doubtless accounts for the wandering irregular flow of circulation or boil in the second vessel ; and the spas- modic constantly changing position of flow in the third vessel as instanced by Mr. CORNISH, B 10 TIMEHRI. nares en Will some one explain why these light gases are not given off earlier in the career of the juice, when its tem- perature is higher, and its density is lower ? Data taken by the writer in 1888, immediately after erecting the first ‘‘ Yaryan’”’ evaporator in this colony, will be interesting when compared with data taken after the addition of another vessel, converting it from a quadruple into a quintuple effet; also data taken from a triple. It is well worth noting that in each case the greatest difference of temperature was in the last vessel : Steam Pres. Ist. 2nd. 3rd, 4th, | 5th Ves. S Thsee® |... SY Wie. eg View 2674 View) sas ace | \ De et 5 lbs. oe Bagh WSR ae eal ER eee | SEA ins Qd. Effet. 10 lbs. aie On | 147) ML 10” |, |. 25° Ve. (Ot miem One gathers from Mr. CORNISH’S letter that he be- lieves circulation prevents corrosion ; with soft scales this is correct but with the hard scales here dealt with, circulation appears to have little effect in preventing deposit ; for instance ‘‘ Yaryan” and other film evapor- ators scale quite as quick as ordinary evaporators. To prevent scaling, what appeared to be a very good praéti- cal suggestion was made in Sugar Cane some time back, viz., to insert a wooden lath into each tube for the scale to deposit on. This lath at the same time by displacing much idle liquor facilitated circulation, and consequently increased the evaporation per square foot of heating surface, Of course if this was applied toa vertical evaporator means would have to be taken to prevent these wood laths from floating out whilst at the same time facilitating their withdrawal. The writer has some under observation at the present moment. Asa matter of fa€t a spanner inadvertently left in a calandria MULTIPLE EVAPORATION.” ri at the beginning of this crop was removed last week and found to be coated with scale four times thicker than that on the tubes and sides of the vessels. In passing it is well to draw attention to the apparent neglect of entrainment, not only by the makers of evapo- rators but by the users also. There are many instances where this entrainment is continually wasting a very small quantity of liquor, imperceptible to anything but chemical observation, but, by its constancy, causing a tremendous loss of sugar on the year’s crop. Having given some very pointed faéts it now only remains to offer suggestions on the best method to be adopted in order to get the data on the physiology of muitiple evaporation as instanced by Mr. SCARD. In doing this the normal condition of working should be as little interfered with as possible. In passing one cannot help remarking that this is a case in which the makers of evaporators might and should give assistance. The following would be required for the syrup :-— Meter or Tank to measure the liquor entering the Ist vessel. Meter to measure the liquor leaving Ist vessel for 2nd, nf ie S 2nd Fe Ske Tank to measure the liquor in 3rd vessel. For the steam :— Meter or Tank for measuring the water from the condensed steam. » from the 2nd calandria pump. », from the grd vessel calandria pump. In fixing up the water measures or meters, care would have to be taken to avoid the possibility of registering gas instead of liquid, the photo Fig. 2, shows how this was done in 1890 with a meter made by the writer out of an old clock and galvanized roofing sheet. The syrup meters might be of the WORTHINGTON or B2 12 TIMEHRI. any other suitable type that register correétly without interfering with the usual working condition of the liquor in passing from one vessel to the other. These are simply suggestions admitting of fuller con- sideration and doubtless open to improvement, but if carried out they would render visible the internal work of an evaporator without interfering with its normal working conditions or thwarting the work of the fa€tory. Calan dri ria Wate “Me te (oa The Indian Policy of the Dutch. By the Editor. HEN Guiana was discovered the coast and lower 4] ©distri€ts must have been fairly well populated. Of the four tribes which then came in conta& with the traders, the Caribs were estimated at something like 140,000, about a fourth of whom lived between the Corentyne and the Essequebo, and the remainder in Caribana, which included the North-West distri@ and the delta of the Orinoco. If we take this estimate as being anything like exaét then Caribana must have con- tained a population of a hundred thousand besides Arawaks and Warrows. There appears to have been four great Carib centres known as the Kingdoms of Pawrooma, (Pomeroon), Moruga, Waini and Barima, the chief towns of which were Maripa, Cooparoore, Tocoo- poima and Pekwa, each community being under one or more warcaptains, The estimate of Major JOHN ScoTT, made in 1666, puts down the population of what is known as British Guiana, up to the delta of the Orinoco, as 28,000 families of Caribs and 8,000 of Arawaks, besides Acawoios and Warrows. While making every allowance for exaggeration, we are bound to admit that the Indian population was a faétor to be reckoned with in any attempts to settle. That the natives were somewhat different from the scattered communities now living in the interior is proved by the faét that cargoes of tobacco, cotton, and other produce could be obtained at regular intervals, and that-it paid to send small trading vessels 14 TIMEHRI. on such risky voyages, For, they were risky, notwith- standing the faét that Guiana was outside the track to the Spanish Indies, the claimants to the whole of America having no hesitation in attacking vessels of other nations whenever and wherever they had the opportunity. After the Spaniards had shewn the Caribs what they might expeét if they allowed them to gain a footing in the country, the cannibals defended their homes when- ever they were attacked, and everywhere apparently with success. As in the case of the Caribbee Islands, it followed therefore that Spain never gained a footing here, and that the country was left open to other nations. These later arrivals, by proclaiming their enmity to Spain, soon gained the confidence of the Caribs and were allowed free access to places from whence Spaniards would have been at once expelled, had they dared to show themselves. In the earliest years of the trading fa€tory at Kyk- over-al we find the Dutch at peace with both Arawaks and Cariks, and doing their utmost to prevent quarrels between them. By the conditions made in 1627, under which Berbice was settled, VAN PEERE agreed that the Indians should be treated justly and honestly, that promises made to them should not be broken, that they should not be robbed, and that his colonists should not interfere with their wives. ‘ The Articled Letter” of the West India Company also charged all persons not to ill-treat the natives of the countries they visited, and not to injure them in any way in their persons, goods, women or children, on pain of fines or flogging. In the “Instru€tions” to ABRAHAM BEEKMAN, dated 1st September, 1678, he was told to get from the former THE INDIAN POLICYOF THE DUTCH. 15 Commandeur, exact information on the nature and cus- toms of the Indians who came to trade there, and he was also enjoined to see that not the least offence might be given to them. At the same time however he was to keep a good watch, day and night, to prevent a surprise, and take care that the Indians did not approach the fort when armed with guns. With all their care however the early Commandeurs could not avoid disputes altogether, and when the English were at war the latter seem to have used their influence to make trouble. Apart from these great quarrels how- ever there were difficulties in conneétion with the Indian slave trade, which caused so much trouble in Berbice as well as in Essequebo, that Ordinances were passed pro- hibiting the taking of any inhabitant of these rivers as a slave. As far as we can glean the first regulation on this matter was made by Commandeur ABRAHAM BEEKMAN in 1686. A white man and a negro had been killed by Indians through the enslaving of one of the natives, and it was therefore ordered that no one should buy these peopie in future without the transa€tion being witnessed by the Commandeur. It was then stated that Indians sold their wives, and even their friends, to the settlers, and the Commandeur was of opinion that such conduét had led to trouble in Surinam. Later, in 1717, a special tax was laid upon red slaves and the number owned by each inhabitant was limited to six, who were to be procured from the Orinoco (probably Barima) by purchase or exchange. The hunting of runaway negroes by the Indians be- came common towards the middle of the last century, being commenced by offering rewards for their recovery 16 TIMEHRI. either dead or alive. The first record of such a trans- aétion was in 1743, when three barbecued right hands were brought, for each of which the Commandeur paid ten axes. As the number of Africans increased and desertions became more frequent, every effort was made to conciliate the Indians and induce them to guard the plantations, but it was not until a system of regular presents came into use that the settlers were able to command their services. We first hear of the engage- ment of a large body of Indians in 1763, when Governor GRAVESANDE sent them overland from Demerara to Berbice, to capture or kill the rebels who attempted to escape after the insurreétion was suppressed. This measure proved so effe€tive that very few negroes took to the bush, and therefore no great community of runaways was formed to give trouble in the future. For the services then rendered, the Carib, Acawoio and Arawak Chief- tains were presented with silver collars on which were engraved the monogram of the West India Company. The arrangements with the Indians appear to have been similar in some respeéts to those with the Bush Negroes in Surinam, and in the absence of any written treaties with the former we may take a few articles from the agreement made in 1768 with the Auca negroes. If slaves ran away to them they were bound to bring them back and deliver them to the nearest white man, who would send the runaways to a Burgher Officer and get a premium of ten to fifteen guilders for each. As soon as a desertion was reported they were bound to hunt the runaway, and if there should be a riot they must assist in its suppression. There was to be one Captain, who must be eleéted for life, and he was entitled to nominate THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 17 his successor. When they required anything from the Governor they must send five or six of their headmen as delegates, and that these might pass free, the Chief was provided with silver headed sticks to be carried while on the mission. In November 1772 a slave riot took place in Essequebo, but the Indians under Captain VAN DER HEYDEN sup- pressed it without much trouble. The Company gave the Captain a silver-hilted sword, and the Indian Chiefs also got silver ornaments, and their men presents of salempores, trumpets, looking-glasses, &c., from the colonial authorities. The Company, when they heard the news, sent out six silver collars for the Chiefs, but as they had already received presents, these were ordered to be returned. From this time we begin to see something like a system, but as yet the Company was too mean to carry out any such arrangements as were made later. The plarters saw the advantage of having the Indians at hand in case of a riot or negro hunt, but the authorities were limited by the mean policy of their High Honourables the Direc- tors. After the French had restored the colonies to Holland in 1784, attempts were made to put everything on a different basis, and the Direétors ordered that the Indians should be conciliated, to prevent slave desertions and. put down revolts. They recommended that land should be given to the Caribs so that they might be kept together, that they should receive regular presents, and that their Captains or “ Owls” should be provided with silver-headed sticks with the Company’s arms en- graved upon them, and silver collars. This appears to have been done a little while afterwards, when the Chiefs Cc 18 TIMEHRI. were also presented with hats trimmed with silver lace. In O&tober 1784 the Arawak Chiefs were convened at Fort Zeelandia to arrange for pursuing some runaways who had wounded a white man and afterwards escaped to the Orinoco. It was then resolved to establish a new post on the Moruca (the former having become dilapidated) and to man it with forty or fifty Indians; no one was to be allowed to go beyond this post with- out a pass from the Governor. It will be interesting to note that when troops were expeéted from Holland in April 1792, it was proposed to station some of them at this post, which we may presume was done. In 1795, there was a great insurrection on the West Coast, where the slaves were joined by the Bush Negroes from the savannah between the Hobabo and the Boera- serie. A large body of Indians was employed who scoured the whole country aback of the plantations and broke up the camps of the runaways foratime. Some of these people came from the Corentyne, and in September of the same year the Court of Policy awarded them 5)500 guilders in gold joes. The expenses of putting down this insurreétion were so great that an extra- ordinary tax had to be imposed. We may here note in connection with the rewards to the Burgher Officers engaged that they each received 250 guilders and a piece of land either on the West Coast of Essequebo orin the Pomeroon, The year following over £2,000 were given to the Indians in goods, and about £700 in cash. In a former paper* we have given an account of some of the raids on Bush Negroes which were carried out after 1795. The result of these and the continual de- * Charles Waterton and his Demerara friend, Timehri, Vol, iy, N.S, Tue INDIAN Poticy oF THE DuTGH. 19 sertion of slaves was the adoption of a regular system of presents which were given by the postholders. Instruc- tions to postholders were passed by the Court of Policy on the 18th of May 1803, during that brief period when the colonies reverted to the Batavian Republic, and these may be considered as embodying the Indian policy of the Dutch, for there appears to havebeen little or no alteration made in them under British rule. There seems to have been at that time two Proteétors of Indians, one for Demerara and the other for Essequebo ; later there were six for the Demerara river, Pomeroon, Mahaica, Mahaicony, Essequebo river and Boeraserie creek, at each of which places there wasa postholder whoreceivedasalary of 1,200 guilders (£100) per annum. The Proteétors were not paid and therefore as a rule took little interest in their duties, which included a general supervision of their subordinates, and the auditing of their accounts. The “ Instructions” were as tollows : — “© 1, The postholder shall keep an accurate journal of his proceedings, and of all the occurrences at the post. 2. He shall transmit quarterly a copy of his ae to the proteétor of his distriét. 3. In case of any extraordinary occurrence at or near the post, he shall immediately acquaint the proteétor therewith. 4. He shall take care to keep the post in good order, and he shall use his utmost exertions to attach to it the Indians who call upon him or who live in his vicinity. 5. He shall endeavour on all occasions to prevent mis- understandings or quarrels between the several Indian tribes, and, where any such exist, he shall exert himself to restore peace, C32 30 Timeurt. 6. When required by the proteétor, he shall be obliged to repair to him without loss of time, and to execute promptly any orders he may receive from the proteétor. 7. He shall not permit any persons, whether whites, free coloured or negroes to pass the post unless they shew him a pass from the Governor or from one of the proteétors of the Indians, the latter being empowered to grant such passes, which must always specify the reason why the persons therein named are to go beyond the post. 8. If any person, not provided with such a pass should attempt to pass the post, the postholder shall be autho- rised, and is even obliged to detain such person or persons, and to bring them to town before the Governor, at the same time giving notice to the proteétor. g. But, to persons having a proper pass he shall give every assistance in his power towards forwarding the business they are upon. 10. He shall not be allowed to carry on any traffic, nor shall he compel the Indians to sell to him the articles they bring down, but he shall suffer them to proceed without any molestation whatever in their trade. Any articles bought from them he shall cause to be duly paid for. 11. He is on no account to compel the Indians to do any job or work of whatever nature for him, 12. He shall not take or appropriate to himself the property of the Indians, much less their wives or children, on pretence of their being indebted to him, even in case of an Indian having had goods from him on credit and refusing to pay for the same; the loss arising therefrom to be for the postholder, THe INDIAN Poticy of tue Durcti. at 13. Should any Indian apply to him with complaints of ill-treatment, against other persons, he shall repair with such Indian to the prote€tor, who will then examine and enquire into the complaint and give redress if the case requires it; all exclusive of the aétion which the fiscal might think proper to bring against the offender or offenders. _14. Any white or coloured person above the post who might be desirous to have an Indian woman to live with him, shall acquaint therewith the postholder, who is then to wait on the prote¢tor with such woman and her parents or nearest relations, in order that the protector may be enabled to enquire and ascertain whether such cohabitation take place with the free consent of the parties and whether the woman is not engaged to some Indian ; and the prote€tor is then either to sanétion or to refuse such cohabitation as he may think right. 15. Should the postholder be desirous of employing any Indians for clearing wood, or for fishing, or paddling his boat, he shall be at liberty to hire them for that pur- pose, with the consent of the proteétor, who shall previ- ously enquire whether such engagement has been entered into voluntarily and who will at the same time inform the Indians that if they are not duly paid as agreed upon they may complain to him. 16. He shall be present at the annual* distribution of presents to the Indians. 17. He shall apply from time to time to the proteétor for the rum he may want for the purpose of giving a dance to the Indians who call upon him. 18, In case of Indians passing the post to go down the i * These were afterwards given once in three years, 63 ; ‘TIMEHRI. river, the postholder shall recommend them to wait on the proteor.” Under these regulations the posts were kept up until after the abolition of slavery, the cost forming a large item in the Colonial expenses. In 1817 the allowances and rations to Indians amounted to 39,044 guilders and the cost of bush expeditions to 18,479. This was very high, for in 1819, the amounts were only £16,980 and 72,976, and two years later £32,312 and £2,262. The Essequebo post was at one period at Ampa and later on the site of the Penal Settlement, Here the Indians of the three rivers assembled at regular intervals, bringing their fami- lies and residing for some days in open logies. In the Pomeroon those who lived as far away as the Barima also came to receive their presents, this going to prove that they were in the position of proteéted native races. Under this proteétorate the Indian chiefs shewed a very independent spirit, which is well exemplified by a case mentioned, in the Court of Policy in 1804. Mr, MACK, Prote€tor of Indians in the Essequebo, then stated that the Caribs of the upper river were very much dissatisfied, notwithstanding the measures taken the pre- vious year to revive friendly intercourse. This he ac- counted for by the faét that, from insufficient notice, they had not shared in the presents given in April 1803. It was well-known, he said, that the Caribs surpassed all other nations in personal courage, and from this had often proved of the greatest utility ; it was highly neces- sary therefore that the colony should secure their assist- ance in case of need. He suggested that a deputation should be sent up to call them all together and to give them a treat as well as presents of gunpowder and salt THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 23 The Court agreed with this suggestion and appointed Councillors MACK and CLEMENTS, with Mr. VAN DER LoTH, Fiscal of Essequebo, to give them a feast and presents, at the same time authorising them to make such promises in the name of the Government as they should think most likely to promote their friendship. On account of sickness two of the delegates could not go, but Mr. MACK went up alone and found about three hundred Indians, under twelve Captains or Owls, at the rendezvous. These he entertained, and endeavoured to satisfy with some small gifts, at the same time promising more when the goods already ordered by the Government should arrive from Europe, He was sorry to report that by mistake some had arrived too late for the feast, and also that some of the distant tribes were not represented. This, he said, was the more to be regretted since it appeared from reports that they were very discontented. The ill-feeling had gone so far that a Chief named Ara- wara, who had been of great service in the revolt of 1795, had come down as far as the house of Mrs. TOME some time before, where he left his Commission as W727, which he had received from Governor GROVESTINS. He asked that lady to return the document to the Government, at the same time expressing his dissatisfaétion. He (Mr. MACk) had however done his best to acquaint the Caribs with the good feeling of the Government towards them, and of his intention to return shortly to distribute rations. From the accounts for articles furnished to the Prote€tor we glean that the Indians were supplied with bread, salt fish, sugar, salt, gin and negotiz. On the 3oth of April 1805, it was reported to the Court that the goods ordered had come out, with invoices amounting to £3,179 13 6, 24 TIMEHRI. when it was agreed to have a distribution as soon as possible. The Indians did not always agree with the bovianders and in 1805 Postholder LINAU was sent up the Essequebo to reconcile the parties in a dispute. He met with an Arawak who had abandoned his home because the mulattoes had frightened him with a report that the Acawois and Macousis were coming down to murder them all. He found the bovianders from Essequebo, Massaruni and Cuyuni congregated on a small island, as they said, for defence against the Indians. Being con- fronted with some of the Arawaks, they affirmed that the report of the expected raid came from the Indians, which the latter denied. Finally the postholder forbade the bovianders to interfere with the Indians, at the same time saying they must pay the Arawaks properly and live in peace with them. The offenders were however very impertinent, refusing to obey these orders and saying that if the whites did not give them satisfa€tion they would attack the Indians. They were, they said, not only free people, but Burghers, and in every respect as good as the whites; if the Fiscal tried to seize their arms he might depend upon it that not a. single gun would be givenup. On further investigation Mr. LINAU also found that the Indians charged the mulattoes with stealing their children to sell as slaves. The Court decided to send two persons who understood the Indian languages to assure them that they would be prote¢ted, and to renew the prohibition of 1793, against their being purchased as slaves. Here we have a glimpse of one of the causes which led to the gradual desertion of the lower distriéts by the THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 25 Indians, which, however was not so conspicuous as long as the presents, were regularly. distributed. Captain ALEXANDER, writing in 1833*, and probably inspired by Mr. HILHOUSE, who had an ill-feeling against the Government, said that it was a very painful refleétion that, although the colony paid for presents, provisions, post- holders’ salaries, &c., about £3,000 per annum, in order to induce the Indians. to remain in British Guiana, yet the office of postholder had been so. shamefully abused that they were rapidly decreasing in numbers every year.. In the rebellion of 1795, eight hundred Caribs took to the field; scarcely fifty could then be found in Demerara ; nine-tenths of the Arawaks that then lived in the colony existed no more, and half the Acawoios and Warrows had disappeared. . Captain ALEXANDER thought the system should imme- diately be changed :—“ First, on the score of humanity ; at present the Indians near the Coast imitate the vices of the European and contraét their diseases, and no arm is stretched forth to save them from the utter destruction, bodily and mental, which is about to overwhelm them,— Secondly, on the score of interest; if the colony is again attacked by a foreign foe, the negroes would probably rise in. rebellion, if there are no Indians to keep them in check; the regular militia will be obliged to succumb. to the invader; the honour of the British arms will be tarnished, and the rich South American colonies lost.” How curious this reads to one who knows the Indians. of to-day! Yet, there is no doubt that these people were of great use under the sociat conditions of slavery. * Transatlantic Sketches. 26 TIMEHRI. Mr. HILHOUSE, who was looked upon as an Indian chieftain, and who seems to have known more of them than any other white man in the colony in the first quarter of this century, had strong obje€tions to the Pro- te€tors and Post-holders, whom he painted in the blackest colours. It will be interesting to note in this conneétion what took place in Moruca about 1822. On the decla- ration of the independence of Venezuela, or rather Columbia, about three hundred Indians, lately belonging to Spanish Missions, refused to remain under Republican Government, and therefore fled to British territory and claimed proteétion. They were said to have been civi- lized, clothed, and acquainted with agriculture as well as several mechanica larts, and therefore a valuable acquis- ition to the colony. A deputation from them came to Georgetown soon after their arrival and asked for a priest, but the Roman Catholics appear to have been unable to supply one at that time. The postholder at Pomeroon seems to have said nothing of this immigra- tion, but according to HILHOUSE set the Indians to work for himself, which treatment drove many of them to wander about the colony and acquire dissolute habits. What these Indians wanted was something like the Spanish Mission system, but the Governor could not see his way to give them anything of the sort. Their Cap- tain was however granted a Commission formally recog- nising him as a British official, but the Governor declined to gofurther, The reasons for not going farther as given by Mr. HILHOUSE were : first, that granting a Mission wascre- ating a new colony ; second, that giving a Catholic clergy- man magisterial authority was a dangerous precedent ; and third, that making an exclusive grant was impolitic, THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 27 Captain ALEXANDER gives an account of these people from the information of Father HYNES who paid them a pastoral visit in 1830:—“ Muskets were fired as he approached, and on his landing, men, women and children, flocked to kiss his hand in token of tespeét. It being night the forest was illuminated with wax lights of their own manufacture. Considerable numbers had arrived from all quarters for the celebration of the festival, and they danced and enjoyed themselves with much sobriety and decorum till a late hour, and without indulging in any of that uproarious mirth so chara€teristic of the savage. “On the morning of the festival (St. John’s Day) great preparations were made for the celebration of the divine mysteries ; a large logie was cleared out for the purpose and tastefully decorated with flowers and green boughs, and in this rustic temple the service was per- formed to a most orderly and devout congregation. Seventy-five children were then baptized, all under the age of ten years. The appearance of these little inno- cents was quite attraétive; they approached the font attired in the prettiest manner, attended by their god- fathers and godmothers; the girls robed in white, with necklaces of coral and silver, and their hair nicely ar- ranged with combs tipped with gold. These children were catechised and they were all well instruéted in their prayers. Some couples were then joined in wed- lock; and their appearance and demeanour also gave great satisfaction to the worthy padré. “During the three days that Mr. HYNES stayed at Morocca a single case of inebriety did not fall under his observation, so that in the work of reforming these D2 28 TIMEHRI. people there was a vice less to combat among them. They were generally decent in their manners, and their appearance was very prepossessing. The men were all well cled, in Spanish ‘straw hats, trousers and a loose upper robe; and the females were also gracefully attired in flowiig drapery, and their hair carefully arranged. ‘In all the scattered settlements Mr. HYNES remarked a degree of comfort and cleanliness that it would ‘be in vain to look for among other Indians; their houses were all neat anc commodious and their grounds tolerably well cultivated—sufficiently so perhaps for their wants. Coffee, sugar-cane, plantains, yams, cassava, maize, and a variety of vegetables were observed growing. They also raised great quantities of feathered stock. They expressed the juice from the cane by a simple machine, and from it made a liquor like spruce beer; if this were to be introduced among other Indians they might be weaned of their liking for rum. They also ‘cured fish, particularly the querriman, so much sought after in the colony.” If this is a fair representation of the ‘results of ‘the Spanish system, it is certainly a great improvement on that of the Dutch, which virtually made the pro- teéted tribes dependent, instead of encouraging them in self-reliance. So bad were the results that, what with the removal of most of the incentives'to industry, and the issue of rum as part of the supplies, the poor children of the forest became fewer in number every year. Like HILHOUS!:, SCHOMBURCK deplored the sac. con- dition into whic. those who lied near the coast had fallen, and in December 1838, Governcr LIGHT in ad- dressing the Court of Policy saia :— THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 29 ““We used these people as auxiliaries—they were useful and faithful ; we made them presents, often mis- applied, too often baneful ; their influence brought much larger numbers of Indians than at present are within our borders—it is evident, if some equally powerful motive were presented, they would again appear. We owe them a debt ; let us‘endeavour to repay it in.a useful way to ourselves, but let it be beneficial to a fallen tTace.”’ The Royal Gazette of August 3rd, 1833, said there were then within the boundaries of the colony about 20,000, a fourth of whom received the regular presents. These were considered as a sort of retaiaing fee, binding them to capture and restore runaway siaves that might take shelter in their territories, and to render any assis- tance in their power in case of a servile disturbance, which pledge they undoubtedly redeemed during the East Coast Insurreétion of 1823. The editor spoke in avour of the Moravian and Jesuit Missionaries, who began first by instructing them in simpie arts and after that gradually drew their attention to more abstruse considerations. Juring the same year Mr. HILHOUSE wrote a number of letters to the Gazette bearing upon the Indian golicy. How strongly he feli on the matter may be seen from the following extra(t from one published November 16:h :-— ‘There never was a greater blot on the reputa- tio: of a civilized ccuntry than the present state of our ab originz1 populatio: ; | am firmly co: vinced it vill be expiated in sackcloth and ashes. The crea:ors and preservers, without whom the colony would.long since 30 TIMEHRI. have been a Maroon camp, like that of Surinam, have been used, and then negleéted and abused, till scarcely a hand remains to pull a trigger in deferce of his Bacra friend. They will be wanted, but they can no longer come, when you do call for them.” In another letter he said that of 350 Indians who assembled in Georgetown in 1823, not half were in exis-— tence ; they had been cut off in their prime by patronised debauchery and drunkenness. He believed there was an amiable disposition in a high quarter to apply a remedy, but why was it delayed when delay meant death? Ultimately, on the 16th of February 1838, in view of the Emancipation, the system was altered by passing an ‘Ordinance to provide for Superintendents of rivers and creeks, The preamble stated that the existing establish- ment of Proteétors of Indians and Postholders was in- adequate to the efficient performance of those duties which were required from those entrusted with the superintendence of the water communications of the interior, and that therefore all laws and regulations re- lating to such officials were abolished. There were to be Superintendents for each county who were to visit the posts at least four times a year and se2 that the Post- holders performed their duties and kept everything in good order. Whenever money should b«. granted to en- courage industry and the location of Indians near the estates, the amount was to be spent in agricultural imple- ments to be distributed to them free, but no plantains, si t fish, or spiritu us liquors were to be given, Neither Superintendent nor Postho'der could le wfully carry on any trade with the Indians and new revulations for the posts were formulated. These regulations were rather THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 31 more stringent than those of 1803, but differed little beyond the substitution of the Superintendent (a paid officer) for the Prote€tor. The results of this change as far as the Indians were concerned were virtually zz/, and even the Superinten- dents and Postholders were suspended during the financial crisis of 1842, True, the churches began to bestir them. selves ; already there were several mission stations, and efforts were made to establish others. Bishop HART, in his charge of the 18th of July 1839, said that there were many circumstances favourable at that moment to the conversion and civilization of the Indian tribes. The negroes were free and the Indians would therefore no longer consider it degrading to work withthem. Though still too much addiéted to the use of intoxicating spirits yet a check had been legally put upon the too easy ac- quirement of that bane of their race, and the Indians themselves were in many cases manifesting a laudable anxiety for clothing and domestic comforts. In August 1857, whatever existed of the Postholder system was merged in the Sub-Registrars, who were succeeded by Commissaries and the Crown Lands De- partment, since which the Indians have been left alone, except for the Missions. When we review the position of the American Indians of to-day, we are compelled to admit that they cannot live in presence of the Anglo-Saxon race. The Spaniard, on the contrary, notwithstanding his cruelty in early times, did not exterminate the native from the continent, and now it seems as if his descendants will ultimately be merged in the true American. Something of this may also be seen in British Guiana, as long as accessions from 32 TIMEHRI. without are not made. Thousands of creoles have more or less of Indian blood, and no doubt a great deal of the apparent decrease of the pure aborigine is due to absorp- tion. But, whereas in Spanish America the aliens are being lost in the native, here on the contrary the oppo- site is conspicuous. The lines on which the American can live and develop appear to be distiné from those natural to the European. With the latter fri€tion, of tribe with tribe, and race with race, seems to be the great faétor; with the former a very slow progress is possible only apart from outside influences. If brought too suddenly in contaét with other races the Indian either moves on, or, if he has no- where to go, dies out, notwithstanding every effort of the humane. If it were possible to leave him severely alone he might develop slowly on his own lines, but in presence of the faét that this is impossible the question is what can be done? Even Indian reservations have proved useless in the United States, and here the gold industry is a fa€tor to be reckoned with, Possibly something like the Spanish mission system might be useful, but pro- testant missionaries are as a rule not trained in the mechanical arts and agriculture. To civilize the Indian the first obje&t should be to put him in the way to support himself apart from outside help, ze, make him independent, but how can this be done? Away from the forest the man’s occupation is gone, and with nothing to do, he must necessarily degenerate. Under natural conditions the woman has her duties and the man his, both sexes are well fitted for these; but when the man is driven to work in the field or to do anything un- suitable he naturally resents it and no doubt feels more THE INDIAN POLICY OF THE DUTCH. 33 uncomfortable than we should if forced to do women’s work. The only employments suitable are wood-cutting and river navigation, but neither of these is favourable to a fixed mission station or to permanent development. With such a large extent of forest as we have in British Guiana, however, every wood-cutting facility should be given to the original owners, and the laws which hamper them at present should be at least relaxed if not akolished entirely. Some of these, especially those which allow the Government officers to seize timber and punts, are decidedly unjust, for it cannot be expeéted that the Indian can be thoroughly acquainted with the law. If the Indian steals timber from so-called Crown Lands he is only taking it from his own territory, while the Government steals the result of his labour of weeks and months. In our journeys on the Demerara river we have heard most shameful stories of this kind of thing ; Government officers charged with going out of their way to interfere with people who are trying to earn a living by hard work, instead of lounging in their hammocks all the day. The sufferers by these raids do not mince matters; they virtually call these seizures thefts, and are they not right? The principle under which many of our laws are administered seems to be that of retaliation, rather than prevention. No official should be interested in a seizure and his objeét should be to explain the law rather than to pounce down upon an ignorant offender. Instead of putting obstac'es in the way of the Indian as a wood-cutter the Government should rather encourage him in every possible way by trying to find a market for his colleétions, whether timber, shingles, firewood or other forest produéts such as orchids, tonka beans and locust E 34 TIMEHRI. gum. If he is to be preserved from extin@tion this appears to be about the only thing left to do; otherwise it is probable that during the next century he will be quite extinét where not absorbed. Since the beginning of the present century, as may be seen from the foregoing, he has decreased wonderfully, and even within the last twenty-five years many a creek on the Demerara rivet has been deserted. Governor CARMICHAEL SMYTH in 1833 refused Father HYNES a grant for a mission on the Moruca, because the ‘ area petitioned for was so great—twenty-five miles by fifty, yet nothing has been done by the colonists during the sixty years which has elapsed to develop that part of the country. He refused the grant “ to the ridiculous extent applied for” and declined giving the Catholic Priest any civil authority, yet the colony might possibly have been the better for such a mission to-day. True, a smaller grant was made later, but nothing would have been lost by treating these poor refugees in a liberal manner. Such a mission might also have been a model for others as we believe that of Santa Rosa is to-day. A great deal has been said at different times about the desirability of populating the interior of the colony from outside, but little about promoting the welfare of our native tribes. While not wishing to disparage the missions at present in existence we are bound to admit that their lines are not quite suitable to the race in ques- tion. The old system of presents was very bad, but it was an Indian policy ; now we have nothing whatever in its place, for the missions can hardly be considered as a system. The result is disastrous and it would be well to consider the possibility of saving the small remnant of THE INDIAN PoLicy OF THE DuTCH. 35 the people who were once of such great benefit to the young colonies, and who probably prevented Guiana from falling into the hands of Spain. We do not want laws for the Indians, but laws to prevent their being oppressed by other races ; they require the fullest liberty and this is in honour due to them. E 2 Queer Homes. By C, A. Lloyd. O Naturalists, the homes of the various species of humming-birds are perhaps the most in- teresting, but as my objeét here is only to refer to nests of peculiar shape, or those placed in unusual situations, my notice of these pretty little structures must necessarily be brief. In all the humming-bird’s nests I have examined, I have never found more than two tiny white eggs, and I believe this number to be the rule with the whole family of humming-birds, or Tvochilidz. I once saw one of these nests in a very strange situation; it was attached toa slender wisp of thatch which projeéted from the eaves of a shed, under which the Indians were in the habit of drying their meat. Although the smoke from the barbicue was often annoying to the Indians themselves, the little humming bird sat unconcernedly on her nest, until the eggs were hatched and her tiny brood hi.d been rearel in safety. The nest was composed of the fea- thery appendages oi various seeds, aiid was cov2red on the « utside -/ith small bits of leaves and straw, whica from a short distance rende-ed it indistinguishaktle from the t..atch on the shed. Biids very oftca make use of strange materials in build. ng their nests. Hers: is an example: \ sma’ finch (Oryziborus ‘p.) was noticed one day making fre quen:: visits t> — rubbish hzap, where a quantity of th : coloired paper found in tias of “ Captain” biscuits had QUEER HOMES. ay been thrown. The bird was carefully watched, and at length observed flying away with a long strip of blue paper dar gling from her beak and disappearing suddenly in a thicket some yards off. I followed her quickly, and there, in a forked branch, was a large spherical nest com- posed almost entirely of strips of coloured paper. The nest was subsequently completed, and four speckled eggs deposited in it, but one day I missed it; some vaga- bondising Gold-digger having rutalessly torn it down and carried it off. The “ hang-nests” may be reckoned among the most skilful of bird architeéts, anc a cabbage palm | once saw at Broomlands, (Mr. C, A. PARRETT’S plantation in Mahaicony), was decorated in a most singular man- ner with the nests of the black “ Bunyah,” Oséznops decumanus. At the end of every arching frond was attached a long purse-like nest, and the whole were arranged as symmetrically as if placed there by human hands. | never remember seeing a more interesting sight, and often wish I could have phctographed the tree. While speaking of the “ Bunyah” it may be as well to note that another hang-nest, the large black rice-bird, Cassidix oryzivora, seems never to ‘uild a home of her own, but contents herself with making use of the deserted Bu.yah iests, in which to !ay her curiously marked eggs, Of all strange places that a bird should -ele& to con- struét her nest, that of < ground dove, Chamexfpelia pass2rin1, which I saw at tue Island cf St. Thomas in the skull of an ox, was certainly the mos unexpected. The old skul. was lying on the ¢ sound in au exposed poiition, and the t ird had found entra ce to it through the foramen magnum, which had been accidenially enlarged, and had 38 TIMEHRI. there deposited her eggs on a tew bits of grass and sticks. ' Another strange place was chosen by our common house wren, 7roglodytes furvus. A friend informs me that a pair of these little birds lately made a nest in an old Tam O’Shanter Cap that had been thrown aside on the top of a clothes-press. Some months ago a pair of pretty little hawks, Hypo- triorchis rufigularis, were to be seen every day for some weeks flying about the tower of the Town Hall. They evidently intended to breed there, but perhaps the dis- cord of the Salvation Army on Sundays made them alter their minds and give the neighbourhood a wide berth. 1 mention this circumstance simply because it is very unusual even to see this species near town. The spiders, ants and wasps are noted for their curious homes, which are sometimes placed in the most unex- peéted localities, as was the case with a small colony of “© Curabelly” ants which had established themselves in my penholder. For days I could not make out what was the matter; every time I had occasion to use the pen, my hands were seized with a burning sensation impossible to describe. At last one day on taking it up to write [ noticed a small grain of dirt fall on the paper, and examiuing the penholder nairowly, discovered that some tiny redantsha made ittherhome, They were “ Cura- bellies,” and if tae reader hes never made their acquain- tance, | can ass. re him that he wil! ever remember them if he coes. Taking into consideration their minute size, they are in my >pinion the worst stinging ants known, and were they cf the dimensions of a common house fly and viruleat in } roportion two of them might be sufficient to killa man. Other species of ants make their homes QUEER HOMES. 39 in the aérial roots of Orchids, and one uncommonly long and slender kind takes up its abode in the swollen petioles of a shrub, the Cordia nodosa. Several species of wasps belonging to the Genera Polybia and Polistes are to be seen in our forests, and many of them construét very singular nests which cannot well be deseribed without the aid of drawings. One however that I came across while travelling in the Kanaku Mountains, was so strange that I will try to describe it. It consisted of about a dozen cells of much the size and shape of those of the Po/dzstes, but instead of being composed of a papery substance, they were apparently made of mud, and were attached to the branch of a small tree by a fine thread of two or three feet in length. The thread resembled a horse hair, both in texture and colour, in faét it might have easily been mis- taken for such by anyone unacquainted with its origin. At the end of this hair-like cable the nest swung to and fro in the breeze like the pendulum ofa clock. What could be the obje€ét of this strange provision we cannot even conjecture, nor do we know the inseét that made it, but judging from the shape of the cells and the larve they contained, the archite€t was most probably a Po- listes. A species of wasp belonging to the Pol:stide forms its nest by fixing cell after cell in a line, until the struc- ture, which is of a dark brown colour, often attains the length of six inches. Others construét nests of three or four irregular cells composed of a grey papery substance. A good example of this family of wasps is to be found in the red ‘‘ Marabunta” that takes up its abode under the bridges of sugar estates, and most planters can testify to 40 TIMEHRI. its pugnacity. On nearly every Sugar Plantation “ kill- ing marabuntas under bridges” is a common item in the Weekly Pay List. In their manner of reproduétion the Polzstidz present us with a very remarkable phenomenon. It has been proved that one set of females produce ova which give rise to female inseéts only; these without fecundation lay eggs producing only males, thus constituting a division of physiological labour, technically known as partheno- genesis, or virgin reprodu€tion. This phenomenon has been noticed in other inseéts as well, but we believe it was first observed in those of which we are now speaking. Another of our native wasps builds a nest of so hard and polished a substance, that a cardboard maker to whom: REAUMUR showed a portion, mistook it for the genuine article, and even, declared it to be the produét of a certain manufactory in France. There is also o be found here a species of the uphol- sterer bee, whica, unlike most of its tribe, forms no burrow in the ground for its nest of leaves, but fixes it instead on the outside of bird’s nests, interlacing the leaves among the fibres and twigs of which they are com- posed. We have never seen the inseé itse f, but the nests are constru€ted exactly on the same principle as those of the European upholsterer bee. The genus Melipona, which is peculiar to this part of the world, comprises some very small stingless bees. Although producing honey they do not store it away in combs of neatly made cells as in the true honey bees, but form large globular vesicles of blackish wax, in which to store the honey and pollen, The honey produced by some of the species is really very good, while that QUEER HOMES. At made by others is often quite sour. The inseéts gene- rally make their nests in hollow trees, but on one occasion in rambling through the bush on the Upper Essequebo River I saw a nest inrather an unusual situation. It was placed on the top of astump and appeared so like a wood ants’ nest, that I gave it a prod with a stick to see what kind of termite was there. Out flew a swarm of little yellow bees, which getting entangled in my hair, buzzing about my ears, and at the same time attempting to nip with their mandibles, produced such an unpleasant sensation, that I made a precipitate retreat and got out of their way as quickly as possible. These little bees are well-known to all who have travelled in the forests of Guiana as inveterate robbers of everything sweet, often falling into the traveller’s tin of milk, scalding themselves to death in his coffee, and stealing away his sugar and jam. In Brazil one of the species pro- ducing the best honey is known by the name of “ John D’ Abreu.” A bee which I have only observed on the Rupununi River is at times a regular pest. It is hardly larger than the ‘‘ Nunca’ sandfly of the same distri&t, and on account of the habit it has of flying into one’s eyes the Indians call it Eng-gyka (eye bee). I have never seen the nest, but it would be interesting to know what it is like. This pigmy is the smallest of the bees found in Guiana if not in the World. Our spiders as far as we are aware, make nothing re- markable in the way of nests, though some are often of exquisite geometrical patteras. I can only record three examples of curious spider’s webs. One was the largest I have eyer seen. It covered a tree of about twenty feet F 42 TIMEHR}, high from top to bottom like a veil of gauze and spread along the ground for some distance. Whether this was the work of a single spider or of several I am unable to. say. The web was most likely spun by a species of Galeodes. Another spider often met with, fastens small. bits of wood and dirt in its web in such a way, that when quietly resting amongst them it is difficult to deteét its presence. I have also seen a spider that had the singular habit of tucking in his web every evening and retreating into a crevice. In the morning he would come out again and set his snare, He was a dapper looking creature, but had it not been for his eccentric behaviour I should never have noticed him. The scorpions found here make no habitation of any sort, simply hiding away under leaves, stones, &c. In other parts of the world, however, they are stated to form burrows, the entrances to which are said to be like the holes cut in the seats of wooden stools for the purpose of introducing the hand when they arelifted. Ihave taken: a scorpion out of a hole in the ground which looked as if it had purposely formed it, butin this instance the hole was cylindrical and the aperture circular. . The curious little Arachnids known as book scorpions or chelifers are represented here by three species, one of which lives in the forest between the spurs of mora trees, and is coloured exaétly like the bark. He is a very large chelifer measuring about a quarter of an inch in length, The other is very handsomely coloured, having a bright steel blue body and scarlet pa/pz. This species is para- sitic on the large Coleoptera, especially affe&ting the Harlequin beetle Acrocinus longuimanus, hiding under the elytra or wing cases. The third is avery tiny crea- QUEER HOMES. 43 ture, stri€tly adhering to the traditions of its race and making its home between old books.and paper. Two or three of our beetles are remarkable tor their habit of cutting off the branches of trees. For a long time the reason of this proceeding remained one of Nature’s secrets, some supposing that it was done by the beetles out of a pure spirit of mischief. It is now known however that the larvze of these beetles bore and exca- vate the branches of trees for the purpose of undergoing their metamorphosis and that the perfect inseét, with wonderful instinét, “rings” the bark to prevent the sap from flowing into the branches too freely and in- juring the young larve. Branches thus cut often break by their own weight, or are snapped off by the wind, These beetles are known here as “‘ Sawyer’’ beetles and one of them is a very large inseét often growing to the ~ length of six inches. I have seen the larve of a beetle in soft Hiawa gum. It was a snow white grub, neatly coiled up in the fragrant substance. Other members of the beetle family pass through their larval stages in all sorts of curious situa- tions, such as the sour legumes of the Tamarind, the hard pods of the locust, and the stony seeds of various palms, The egg cases (Ootheca) of the voracious mantidz are very curious looking objeéts. They are generally at- tached to twigs, and some of them look like the galls made by species of Cynips. Our large green mantis covers its eggs with a very curious corrugated capsule. They are often attacked and destroyed by a small black ant, which being frequently found crawling about them have led some to suppose that they were ants’ nests, SS F2 Note on Berbice Bats. By C. G. Young, M.D. —— ed etl ne Ns HE following is a list of the bats which have been colle€ted in Berbice by me up to the present 33 date. They have been identified by Dr. F. A. serine of the Leiden Museum. The distribution of the species is that given by the late G. E. DoBSON in the British Museum Catalogue of the Chiroptera. Where they were colleéted here, I have placed in brackets. : De ON aa 1.—Atalapha intermedia. (Berbice River, beyond Fort Nassau). Texas. —Vespertilio nigricans. (New Amsterdam ; Berbice River, beyond Mara). West Indies; Guatemala; Venezuela; Columbia; Ecuador ; Interior of Brazil. 3-—Natalus stramineus. (New Amsterdam). Brazil; Central America. 4.—Rhynchonycteris naso. (Berbice River, beyond Mara.) Honduras; Guatemala; Demerara; Surinam; Upper Amazons; Peruvian Amazons. 5.—Saccopteryx leptura. (New Amsterdam). Surinam; Brazil. 6.—Noctilio leporinus, (Abary Creek; Plantation Friends Hospital ; Berbice River, beyond Mara), Demerara; Coast of South America, NoTE ON BERBICE BATS. 48 7.—WNoctilio albiventer. (Berbice River, beyond Mara), Bolivia. S8.—Molossus plantrostris. (New Amsterdam; Pln. Friendship; Abary Creek; Canje Creek). Berbice; River Cupari; Amazons. 9.—Molossus rufus. (Berbice River, beyond Mara). Oaxaca; Mexico; Choétan; Pernambuco; Brazil. 10.—Molossus obscurus. (Berbice River, from New Amsterdam upwards), West Indian Islands; Central and South America. 11,—Molossus abrasus. (Berbice River, beyond Mara). Central America; Demerara; Surinam: Cayenne, 12.—Vampyrus spectrum. (Plantation Friends Hospital), Jamaica; Nicaragua; Panama; British Guiana; Brazil. 13.—Phyllostoma hastatum. (Providence Hospital; Friends Hospital). Demerara; Cayenne; Brazil. 14.—Phyllostoma discolor. (Upper Berbice River.) Surinam. 15——Phyllostoma elongatum. (Upper Berbice River). Surinam ; Brazil; Peru. 16.—Carollia brevicauda. (Upper Berbice River), Mexico to Sta. Catherina; Brazil; West Indian Islands, 46 Timeuri. 17.—-Rhinophylla pumtilio. (Berbice River, beyond Mara). Bahia. 18.—Glossophaga soricina. (Upper Berbice River). Central America; Venezuela; Jamaica; Trinidad; Grenada; British Guiana; Surinam; Upper Amazon ; Peru; Bolivia. 19.—Artibeus plantrostris. (Canje Creek ; Abary Creek; Berbice River, from New Amsterdam upwards). Guiana; Brazil. 20.—Artibeus quadrivittatus. (Pln. Friends Hospita!). Surinam; Brazil. 21.—Desmodus rufus. (Richmond Hill ; Canje Creek). (Central America; Guiana; Brazil; Peru; Chili. 22,—Desmodus Youngitt. (Upper Canje Creek), A new species. Venezuelan International Law. By Hon, N. Darnell Davis, C.M.G. ay tal \N American Humourist, yclept JOSH BILLINGS, WAYS has “ gone one better,” upon the admonition, that “ thrice is he armed who hath his quarrel _ just,” by declaring, “ and four times he who gets his blow in fust.” A€ting in accordance with this Proverbial Philosophy, our neighbours of Venezuela got a long way ahead of us, in taking the World into their confidence, as to the question of Boundary between the Republic and Great Britain. Among their publications, was one issued in 1888, under the title Venezuelan International Law: British Boundaries of Guiana. In this Blue Book of 588 pages, the “claims” of Venezuela are set forth. It is only in this year of Grace, 1896, that the belated Briton has come forward with his Boundary Blue Book, wherein he has shown what are his rights to territory in Guiana. The Venezuelans had sworn, by the Treaty of Munster, that, in 1648, they possessed the territory in Guiana from the right bank of the Orinoco to the left bank of the Essequibo. Spanish Records, quoted in the British Blue Book, demonstrate that, all that the Spaniards held and possessed in Guiana, in 1648, was the still-born settlement of San Thomé, on the right bank of the Orinoco. Leaving the main question, however, to be dealt with by that Blue Book, let us examine some of the miscellaneous statements made in Venezuelan [nter- national Law. On page 185 of the Venezuelan statement, Sefior FORTIQUE is described as having alleged, to Lord a 48 TIMEHRI. ABERDEEN, “ the title of first occupant and discoverer “ of the new world in favour of Spain, as she had been “ recognized by all nations, especially in the country of “Guiana, over which she exercised jurisdi€tion and ** founded towns and established missions to spread the * Gospel; so much so that the enemies of Spain found “‘ there in 1579 towns to destroy and priests to persecute.” “Towns to destroy”! This is, indeed, a magnilo- , quent description of a supposed Mission station, for Indians, with two priests! But, the mythical town of 1579, itself disappears. The British Blue Book shows, that the first town of San Thomé came into existence only in 1596, so our neighbours must be at more pains to re-write the History of their Country. Quoting CAS- SANI’S History of the Society of Fesus (1741), the British Case states that “ About 7664 the Fathers LAURI and ““ VERGARA were sent to explore Guiana, with a view “of seeing whether a Jesuit Mission should be founded “there. They reported the province abandoned by “the Spaniards, and nothing came of their expedition.” A footnote to the year 1664, says, ‘** The date sometimes “ erroneously assigned to this expedition is 1576.” It is true that Father GUMILLA, in his “story of the Orinoco, says that Captain JANSON, a Dutchman, destroyed San Thomé in 1579; but, this must be a slip of the pen, ora misprint (pp. 38, 39). At the end of the same chapter in which that date is given, Father GUMILLA says that Father LAURI and his companion laboured at Mew Guiana (p- 42, Histoire de ’Orenoque: Marseil® 1758). Now, it was not until 1637, that there was a Vew Guiana. So the good Jesuit Priests could not have visited the Ori- noco in 1576. VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAw. 49 And who is the first witness brought into Court on behalf of Venezuela?—None other than that great Elizabethan Englishman; the Founder of England’s Colonial Empire: that “ good hater” of the Spaniard, Sir WALTER RALEIGH, the valiant knight, who was Captain of the Guard to Queen ELIZABETH, and one of the heroes at the capture of Cadiz. This mighty man of valour, who was unjustly put to death by King JAMES, in 1618, to gratify Spain; after the destruction by Cap- tain KEYMIS and RALEIGH’S men, of San Thomé of Guiana ; is a€tually quoted, or misquoted, to support the “ claims” of Spain ! Here is the statement in Venezuelan International Law :— “Sir WALTER RALEIGH affirms that in his time the “ Spaniards possessed the Orinoco and all its surround- “ings; that they already occupied the rivers Barima, ** Moroca and Pumaroon; that their dominions ex- “ tended as far as the Essequibo; and that according “‘to the document which he found in the possession of “the Governor ANTONIO BERRIO, possession had been “once more solemnly taken of those lands in the name “ of the King of Spain on the 23rd of April 1593.” As Mr. WILBERFORCE EAMES pointed out, in the New York Nation, last year, the Lennox Library of New York contains a copy of each of the three editions of Sir WALTER RALEIGH’S Discovery of the Empire of Gutana, which issued from the press in 1596. It is, therefore, pra€ticable for our American cousins to read that charming volume, in all its Shake- spearean English. As they will search it in vain for proof of any, excepting the last, of the assertions in the extract G 50 TIMEHRI. above given, they will conclude that the policy that prompted such sweeping statements partakes of DAN- TON’S l’Audace: toujours de l’Audace. What did RALEIGH say ?—Let us quote from the Hakluyt Society’s edition of his Discovery, published in London in 1848, and ably edited by Sir ROBERT SCHOMBURGK, with whose name the Boundary question has made the World familiar. ‘Of Guiana, Sir WALTER recorded (p. 115) :--~ “ To conclude, Guiana is a countrey that hath yet her ‘‘ Maydenhead, never sackt, turned, nor wrought, the “ face of the earth hath not been torne, nor the vertue ‘and salt of the soyle spent by manurance, the graves “have not beene opened for gold, the mines not broken “ with sledges, nor their images puld down out of their “temples. It hath never been entered by any armie of “strength, and never conquered or possessed by any “ Christian Prince.” As to the precarious footing the Spaniards held on the Orinoco, RALEIGH said (p. 39). :— “Now BERREO for execution of MOREQUITO and “ other cruelties, spoiles, and slaughters done in Arro- “ maia hath lost the love of the Orenoqueponi, and ofall “ the borderers, and dare not send any of his soldiers “ any farther into the land than to Carapana, which he “calleth the port of Guiana; but from thence by the “helpe of Carapana he had trade farther into the ** countrey, and alwaies appointed 10 Spaniards to reside “in Carapana’s Towne; by whose favor and by being “ conduéted by his people, those ten searched the coun- “ trey thereabouts as well for mines, as for other trades “and commodities.” So that mention of 10 Spaniards, stationed at San Thomé, is equal to RALEIGH’S “ affirm- VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW. | 51 ** ing that in his time the Spaniards possessed the Orinoco “‘ and all its surroundings ;”’ even though RALEIGH ex- pressly mentions that the Spaniards were hedged around, by hostile natives, “ all holding the Spaniards *‘ for a common enimie” (p. 52). So far from RALEIGH’S saying that the Spaniards “already occupied the rivers Barima, Moroco and Pumaron,” he merely said (p. 39) :— “ Among manie other trades, those Spaniards used in “ Canoas to passe to the rivers of Barema, Pawroma, “and Dissequebo, which are on the South side of the * mouth of Orenoque, and there buie women and children “ from the Cannibals, which are of that barbarous nature “as they will for 3 or 4 hatchets sell the sonnes and “ daughters of their own brethren and sisters, and for * somewhat more even their own daughters: hereof the “‘ Spaniards make great profit, for buying a maid of 12 * or 13 yeeres for three or fower hatchets, they sell them “‘againe at Marguerita in the West Indies for 50 and ** 100 pesoes, which is so many crownes.” It is readily admitted that RALEIGH printed a transla- tion of a Spanish document, in which is solemnly set forth the taking possession of “ the noble provinces of “Guiana and Dorado,” on the 23rd of April, 1593, by DOMINGO DE VERA. The action of DE VERA, on the right bank of the Orinoco, may be likened to that of the Eng!tishman ROBERT HARCOURT, who, about to settle on the Wiapoco, there soiemnly took possession “ by turf “and twig,” of the whole country of Guiana, between the Orinoco and the Amazon. The citing of Sir WALTER RALEIGH, in support of Spanish claims to the country of the Orinoco, can C2 52 TIMEHRI. hardly be considered fortunate. So far from that valiant sailor-soldier having affirmed that, ‘in his time, *‘ the Spaniards possessed the Orinoco and tts surround- ings,” he seems to have felt very grave doubts as to their possession of even the Orinoco; as will be gathered from the following extraét from a letter written by him to Lord CAREW :— “ The Oronoko itself had long ere this had 5,000 “English in it, I assure myself, had not my employment “at Cales the next year after my return from Guiana, “and after that our journey to the islands hindered me “for those two years. After which Tyrone’s rebellion “ made Her Majesty unwilling that any great number of “ ships or men should be taken out of England till “that rebellion were ended. And lastly Her Majesty’s “death, and my long imprisonment, gave time to the “Spaniards to set up a town of sticks, covered by “‘ leaves of trees, upon the bank of Oronoko, which they * call San Thomé.’’* The Orinoco itself was renamed as the Ra/eana, in 1590, by KEyYMIS, in honour of Sir WALTER. The poets of his time looked upon Sir WALTER RALEIGH’S Dis- covery of Guiana, as opening the way to the founding of a new Britain in the New World. CHAPMAN, the trans- * Between the San Thomé of 1618 and the San Thomé of 1723, there was not much to choose. According to a Spanish account, San Thomé consisted of 20 or 25 cabins, occupied by as many persons, destitute, indeed, Surrounded by thick forest, the place was unhealthy and fever-stricken. The inhabitants “ never went any distance from “the place on account of the great risk of falling into the hands of the “ Caribs, who occupied and wandered over all those territories,” See p, 109 of the British Blue Book. VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAw. 53 lator of HOMER, in lines of greeting to Sir WALTER, sings of Guiana as standing “ On her tiptoe at fair England looking,” and, of “ Where, New Britannia humbly kneels to Heaven,” SHAKESPEARE did not admit that Guiana belonged to Spain. He makes OTHELLO speak of the Spaniards’ deadly enemies, / “ The canibals that each other eat ;” and, FALSTAFF refers to “ A region in Guiana, all gold and bounty.” The poets had probably talked with the traveller, at the Mermazd tavern, over his voyage to Guiana. It is asserted by the Venezuelan Foreign Office, (p. 171) that the learned Dutchman JUAN DE LAET, “agrees with Sir WALTER RALEIGH, that the Orinoco, “the Moroco, and the Pumaron, belonged to the ‘ Spaniards, who occupied them at the time.” To this it must be objected, that DE LAET must have misquoted Sir WALTER RALEIGH, or must himself be misquoted in Venezuelan International Law: for, as shown above, Sir WALTER did not say that the Orinoco, the Moroco, or the Pomaroon, belonged to the Spaniards. On the other hand, Lord ABERDEEN, in his communication with Senor FORTIQUE, relied upon DE LAET, for support of the Dutch rights. (p. 188.) Three charts are quoted in support of Venezuelan claims, in which Cape Nassau, and the river Pomaroon, are variously given as the Boundary. Then J. W. NORIE, the English hydrographer is quoted as saying, in 1828, that “ British Guiana extends from the Corentin “tothe Essequibo; the latter belonged also to the Dutch, “but was ceded to Great Britain by the Sovereign 54 TIMEHRI. “of the Netherlands by the convention of 1814.” Now, NORIE was an authority upon the science of Navigation, not an authority upon Political Geography. He cites no authority for his statement: which he may not unreasonably be supposed to have copied from ““ALCEDO”’? THOMPSON, who was himself misled by the name of Essequibo, it being by him identified with the River alone. The Columbian Navigator, 1822, is mentioned as giving the Essequibo as the Boundary : but, what is the value of its authority upon a political question ? LA CONDAMINE’S authority in a matter of this kind cannot carry much weight. HUMBOLDT’S monumental learn- ing must always be respected ; but he, made no special study of the question of Boundaries. He seems to have been misquoted by the Venezuelan Foreign Office, as regards the Boundary shown by Major VON BOUCHEN- ROEDER, in his map of 1798. That map was prepared for the Committee of the Colonies and Possessions of the Batavian Republic, at a time when Essequibo was in the hands of the British. At the river Barima a line is drawn, and these words are printed along it :— “Ancien poste Hollandaise sur les limites des posses- stons Espagnoles. The river Amacura is in this map erroneously placed on the Southern side of the Barima. There seems to be some misapprehension of meaning in the following statement made on page 173 of Venezuelan International Law :—1794.—Mr. Six, Secretary of the Dutch East India Company sent a communication to Senor CORRAL, the Spanish Minister to Holland, in which he says :—“ That the Captain, pilot ‘and crew of the Spanish merchant ship ‘“ Nuestra VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAw, 55 ‘« Senora de la Concepcion” after having been perfectly “ well treated Ly the Governor General of Surinam “were conveyed to Moroco, west of the Essequibo, as ‘being Spanish territory, so that they could thence go, “as on thetr own land, to the nearest Spanish American “town. It was therefore acknowledged by the Dutch “ at that time, that the Moroco river was in territories “ belonging to Spain.” One would like to see the original document ; for it is hard to believe that, after the Dutch had kept Moruca as a fortified post for many years before, they should give away the place in 1794. Can it be that the real faéts of the case are described in a statement preserved among the Records of British Guiana, as set forth in the note below?* Dutch soldiers, * Extra& trom the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Ordinary Meeting of the Court of Policy, held by His Excellency the Governor General and Honourable Members of the Court at the Court House, Stabroek, in Rio Demerary. (Translation, from the Dutch.) . Thursday, 1 August, 1793. “ The Governor General communicated to the Court, that a certain Captain commanding a schooner, which arrived in this river from Surinam, had reported to him having on board the Captain, Mate, and eight sailors, of a vessel which was captured by a French vessel and taken to Cayenne; these people having escaped from there to Surinam, he had agreed to transport them to the Island of Trinidad for account of the Surinam Government ; but having learnt from another passenger on board, who understood the Spanish language, that, from the conver- sation carried on among themselves, they are of intention to seize this vessel ; in consequence of which the Captain considered it advisable to put into this port, and to approach His Excellency with request for assistance to prote& his vessel. His Excellency, therefore, considered it necessary to inform the Court of this occurrence, in order that certain measures be adopted for the purpose of frustrating the intention of these men, at the same time, to send them on to the Island of Trinidad, 56 TIMEHRI. in the British Service were attacked by a Spanish Force, on the 19th of January, 1797, at Moruca, when the Spaniards were severely defeated. On page 179 of Venesuelan International Law, Dr. SEIJAS gives the following’statement, and an extraé& from the Convention of Aranjuez :—‘‘ On the 23d of June 1791 a Convention was concluded between Spain and Holland to reciprocally restore the deserters and run- aways from their American Colonies, which Convention was signed at Aranjuez. In the preamble thereof it is stated, that the parties, moved by the repeated complaints of their respe€tive colonies in America, and by the wish to cut these to the root, have found it convenient to con- clude a Convention by which the reciprocal restitution is. Whereupon it is resolved by the Court; after due deliberation, and after examination of the said Captain, with the name of T. Schaepffer, commanding the schooner Glory, and the said passenger with the name of Steven Pouqnet, as also the Spanish Captain Joseph Sariat, whose evidence was interpreted by a competent Translator ; to order on board the said Glory, as protection against any invasion of the schooner, a troop of soldiers, and to send the said Spanish Captain and Mate, and the eight sailors, in the same vessel, under command of a pilot, te the port of Morukko, with instructions to the Commandant to send these ten Spaniards from there to the Island Trinidad, by Indians in their large boats, in order to carry out the intentions of the Surinam Govern- ment. Also resolved that all expenses incurred be paid out of the Colony Chest.” The Records of Surinam, of Trinidad, or those of Holland, may yet prove that the Spaniards, brought from that Colony, in the Glory, were none other than the officers and crew of the Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion. At all events, the Minute quoted above proves that, in 1793, the Dutch had not a shadow of a doubt as to their dominion over Moruca, VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW. 57 established of deserters and runaways Jetween their re- spective Colonies.” Article 1 is of the following tenor: “« The reciprocal restitution is established of white or black runaways between all the Spanish possessions and the Dutch Colonies in America, more especially between those where the complaints have been more frequent, to wit: between Porto Rico and Saint Eustace, Coro and Curacao, the Spanish Establishments in the Ort- noco and Essequibo, Demerara, Berbice and Surinam.” So blinded by patriotic zeal is the learned Do€tor, that he proceeds to argue that the term Essequibo re- striéted the Dutch to the river Essequibo, and that, the term “ Colony” had no extended meaning. The terms used are “ Spanish possessions,” and * Dutch Colonies.” If Essequibo, is to mean the Essequibo river only, then, by all parity of reasoning, the word Orinoco, used in the Treaty, must mean the Orinoco River only. The Vene- zuelan Nation cannot be allowed a monopoly of the science of Logic. If Dr. SEIJAS’ mode of interpretation of the Treaty is to tell against the Dutch, it must tell against the Spaniards also. The result then would be, that there should be a Vo-man’s-land, or a Buffer State, between Venezueia and Great Britain’s Colony. If Venezuelan International Law had been written to prove how shadowy were the “ claims” of Spain, to the territory now forming part of the colony of British Guiana, one could have understood the reason for the publication therein, of the correspondence showing an intention, to attempt to occupy the lands of the lower Orinoco and its neighbourhood, in 1779 to 1783; and, proving that the Spaniards did not then hold or possess H 58 TIMEHRI. -ose regions. As it is, there is no need for the colo- nists of British Guiana to exclaim ‘‘ Oh, that mine enemy *“ would write a book!” Their “ friends, the enemy,” have already done that. The correspondence is set forth on pages 81 to 94. From it the notes following have been yvathered. On the 4th of February 1779, the Governor General of Venezuela issued a Mandate, in which he lays down rules for the founding of towns in the province of Guiana, and provides that the occupation of lands, in all the places he indicates, is to be done as in a part of the province (pp. 81 to 84). One objeét of the Mandate, be it noted, was the occupation of lands indicated. The Commis- sioners were to “ endeavour to occupy said lands.” So far, therefore, from the Spaniards’ being then in pos- session of the territory now in dispute, this Mandate proves that, down to 1779, they had not even occupied it. Indeed, the very first article of the Mandate proves that the boundaries of Spanish Guiana were not known, for therein it is declared as follows :— “ The principal and most important point in this affair “ being to determine the /zmits of the aforesaid province “of Guiana, so as not to work in vain, which province “ commences on the east to the windward of the point “where the river Orinoco empties into the Ocean on “the border of the Dutch Colony of Essequibo: one of “ the first cares of the Commissioners appointed for this ‘¢ affair in the establishment which is to be made, shall be “to go as near as possible to this colony, endeavouring “to find the most advantageous and convenient spot for “ the foundation of the first town, bearing in mind that, “at that frontier, it will probably be necessary to ereét VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAw. 59 “‘a fort for the defence of the limits, and that for this ‘reason the spot seleéted must be a convenient one for “the ere€tion of this fort, so that the advantages of “the ground shall further secure it against the enemies “who may attempt to attack it.” So little, in fa€t, did the Governor General of Vene- zuela, in 1779, know of the territory in question, that, in the last paragraph of his Mandate, he admits the im- possibility of laying down certain and sure rules on so important a subject, about “an unknown country.” Mark the words, “ ax unknown country.” The officer commissioned to survey this ferra incognita was JOSE FELIPE DE INCIARTE. He reported on the 27th of November 1779, (pp- 84 to 89). Of course, INCIARTE was unable to report the presence of any Spaniards in the Barima distriét. He mentions, how- ever, facts which show that, a few years before, a Dutch- man had made himself at home on the Aruka, a tributary of the Barima. These are his words :-— ** Entering the aforesaid branch of Aruco, one meets “at a distance of one league, the first hill, which was “inhabited a few years ago by a Dutchman from Esse- *‘ quibo called MENER” (MYNHEER) “ NELCH and by “* several Indians of the Caribbean tribe. At the foot of * this hill, in a small creek, I found the hulls of a large * pirogue and of a boat, which an Indian assured me had ‘“‘ belonged to the aforesaid Dutchman. On the hill we “found portions of coffee, anonce (?) and orange trees. “T omit further details having entered them in a diary ** which I have commenced and to which I refer.” MYNHEER NELCH, from Essequibo, had not only lived among the Caribs, the allies of the Dutch, but had H2 60 TIMEHRI. planted coffee and orange trees, on the hill where he dwelt. Surely INCIARTE’S diary should be published, as the details omitted might prove to be of value at the present time. Leaving the Aruka, the Spanish Surveyor descended the Barima, and entered the Mura (Mora ?). Thence, by the Guiana (Waini), he entered the Para- mana (Baramanni?). He surveyed this stream, and those called Viara, Azacate, Itabo, and the one that runs through the Sadana “ which leads to the post held by the Dutch “at Moruca.” Again, INCIARTE refers to his diary for “ full particulars.” The position of the Dutch post at Moruca is described as being “ at a distance of two “ leagues from the commencement of the Cumaco lands “to the South West Quarter, South.” Ata quarter ofa league before reaching the Dutch post, the Moruca formed a small bay, and this bay could serve as a port. INCIARTE was of opinion that, it would be convenient “ to found a town close to this bay or port, as besides the * advantages offered by the produce of the land, the “ communication which the Dutch have with the Orinoco “by means of the inside branches could be prevented ; “there being no other pass, they would be compelled “to enter through the North of the Guaina into the “sea * * *”’ After making suggestions as to fortifying the proposed town, INCIARTE dwells upon the expe- diency of dislodging the Dutch, from their post at Moruca, in this wise :— ‘‘ The aforesaid Post held by the Dutch on the Moruca ‘“advances from Essequibo towards the Orinoco in a * distance of about eighteen leagues, in an almost North- ‘‘ westerly, Southeasterly dire€tion, the one from the other, * and although it is at present but an insignificant house VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW, 61 ‘‘ with only two dismounted guns and a few swivel-guns, “as it could however receive assistance from Essequibo “ within less than twenty four hours, it would be very “convenient, for the safety of the new towns that may “be founded, to dislodge the Dutch from the aforesaid “ port, from which the distance to the sea and through “‘ the aforesaid Moruca, is of about five leagues.” INCIARTE got as far as the Pomaroon: but makes no mention of the Dutch settlement on that river. On the summit of the second hill, on the left, going up the Pomaroocn, a few years previously inhabited by Caribbean Indians, there was room enough for a medium sized town, “ after having properly fortified it.” For this reason, it seemed to INCIARTE that “ the first town ‘which it is intended to found under the name of San “ Carlos de la Frontera, should lie on this spot, as, being ‘* distant from Essequibo by land only twelve or thirteen “leagues, it commands, on account of its advantageous ‘‘ position, not only the surrounding lands, but also the “ aforesaid branch Bauruma” (the Pomaroon). INCIARTE’S Report was sent on to Spain. On the 1st of Oétober, 1780, a Royal Order was issued to the Governor of Caracas, respe¢ting the surveyal and the peopling of the Eastern part of the lower Orinoco, (pp. 89 to go.) The Spanish Minister, DON JOSE DE GALVEZ, therein conveyed to the Governor, the King of Spain’s orders, in the following words :— ** And having reported to the King all that these docu- “ments contain, he has been pleased to command that “the aforesaid INCIARTE return to Your Excellency “so that you may, at once, or when you may see fit, * charge him once more with the same mission of occu, 62 TIMEHRI. “‘ pying and populating the lands which he described in “his aforesaid report of 27th November last, and to ereé&t “the two small provisional forts which he has judged “‘ necessary, the one to protect against the attacks of the “ Dutch of Essequibo the town which may be founded, * as he suggested in said report, close to the bay formed “ by the small river or creek Moruca, at a distance of a “quarter of a league from the post or guard-house “held by the Dutch, which stands at about eighteen “‘ leagues from Essequibo towards the Orinoco, ereéting “said fort on the highest point commanding the point ‘* that may be occupied by the town and its surround- “ings; and the second fort with four or six guns in the “ bay itself of the aforesaid river Moruca, to prevent the “entrance thereto of any unfriendly vessel; dislodging “ the Dutch from the aforesaid post or guard house which “ they have constru€ted there; it being understood that “if the Direétor General or Governor of Essequibo “should complain, answer shall be given that these “* proceedings are taken in conformity with the general “laws and instructions given for the better government “‘ of our Indies, which do not allow of such intrusions of “foreigners in the Spanish dominions, such as those ** are ; which same answer shall be given here if the States “General of Holland make any complaint or claim.” So, the mission of occupying and populating the lands in the ‘‘ unknown country” of the lower Orinoco, was to be effeéted by the “ dislodgment” of the Dutch, with whom Spain was at that time, ostensibly, on friendly terms! The projeét bore a strong family likeness to the burgla- rious compact entered into by the Spaniards and the Portuguese in 1753, for ousting the Dutch from their VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW. 63 possessions in Guiana. As in that shameless inter- national Conspiracy against the Boers of South America, the Spaniards also on this occasion, forgot to aét upon the maxim, “ first catch your hare.” Expeéting, however, that their plot would succeed, it was arranged that the Dutch should be dislodged from the Pomaroon and the Moruca; and, that a Spanish town should be founded on the Pomaroon, and a Spanish fort should be ere€ted at Moruca. The town was to be named Saz Carlos de la Frontera. It must be borne in mind that INCIARTE was, in all these matters, aéting under the authority of the King of Spain. He was commissioned to explore what was, to his own Government, avowedly, “ an unknown country,” in order that steps should be taken to “ occupy”’ it with Spaniards. During his travels he finds signs of Dutch occupation, only. He makes a burgling proposal, afterwards approved by the King of Spain, to “ dislodge” the Dutch from their ancient possessions in the Poma- roon, and Moruca distriéts. As a matter of History, the Spaniards never succeeded in effeéting the “ dis- lodgement” of the Dutch from those places. Neverthe- less, most important are the conclusions to be drawn from INCIARTE’S statements. The name proposed to be given to the proposed town on the Pomaroon, speaks for itself. Turned into English, Sax Carlos de la Frontera becomes Saint CHARLES ofthe Frontzer. That is to say, that, had the Dutch been ‘‘ dislodged” in 1779, or thereabouts, the Spaniards would gladly have contented themselves with the Pomaroon as their Frontier! Now, as the Spaniards did not so “ dislodge’’ the Dutch, in 1779, or afterwards: how, in the name of Justice, can Venezuelans be supported in their outrageous pretension 64 _ ‘TIMEHRI. in 1896, that the Territory of the Republic includes the left bank of the Essequibo? Again: the reasons given by INCIARTE for “‘dislodging” the Dutch from the Moruca and for ere€ting a Spanish fort there, form an important admission as to the sphere of influence exer- cised by the Dutch, from the fortified post and trading- station of the West India Company, at the Moruca, in territory which was “an unknown country” to the Spaniards. INCIARTE bears testimony to the trading operations of which Moruca was the Centre, and which extended to the Orinoco itself, with the concurrence of the Indian Allies of the Hollanders. He says :— “Tt would be convenient in my opinion to found a “town close to this bay or port, as besides the advan- “ tages offered by the produce of the land, the communi- “ cation which the Dutch have with the Orinoco by “means of the inside branches could be prevented; ‘“‘ there being no other pass, they would be compelled to “enter through the North of the Guaina into the sea; ‘and although it would be easy for them to go to the ‘€ Orinoco through the Guaina, as they would sail before “the wind, the return to Essequibo in barges and “ pirogues (which are generally used for unlawful trade ‘‘ with the Orinoco) would be very difficult and almost “impossible when there is any breeze, especially from ‘the North-east, as, on account of the shallowness on “ that coast, a very choppy surf rises, which besides pre- ‘ venting them from advancing by means of oars, would “expose them (these vessels not being covered) to lose “ their cargo, if this consist of tobacco, on account of “ the water which necessarily and continually enters the vessel, and if the cargo consists of mules or cattle, on VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL Law. 65 “ account of having to reach the Orinoco as quickly as “possible for, although they can get plenty of water “from the Guaina, they cannot get grass, there being “no plains in those regions. * * * * a * ‘‘ Communication with the Capital of the Orinoco can “be held throughout the year, through the branches, “and without going out into the sea, by means of ‘‘ pirogues, and, during a great part of the year, even “ with barges’ (pp. 86, 87). | It may be well to mention that the visit of the Span- iards to the Moruca and Pomaroon, in 1779, was duly reported to the Governor of Essequibo, who noted it for aétion on his part. INCIARTE seems to have eventually been placed in nomi- nal charge of the lower Orinoco, as he wrotea Report upon it, on the 5th of December, 1783. He makes it clear, however, that the Indians preferred to escape from Spanish domination. The following extraét from his — Report shows that the Indians of the lower Orinoco were beyond the control of the Spaniards :— “ The four Indian towns of Buena Vista, Maruanta, “ Orocopiche and Panapana, were very considerable «¢ when first founded, on account of the large numbers of “their inhabitants, but. they are now so reduced and * fallen off that there are scarcely enough Indians in them “to cultivate in common the tillable lands necessary “ for their maintenance, on account of the great distance “ at which they are, for which reason those towns, in- “ stead of increasing, have greatly fallen off through the “ continual flight of the Indians to the lands of the lower “ Orinoco, the consequence of this being, besides the I 66 TIMEHRI. “loss of the lands, that they prevent the conversion “ and subjeétion of many others, through the news that “the runaways give them, exaggerating the great trou- ‘© bles and necessities they have to bear with in the above “ mentioned towns, thus doing away with the hope of “ bringing together, and founding a town in the neigh- “ bourhood of said capital, with the Indians who inhabit “ the lands of the lower Orinoco.” Later on, he says, with reference to a proposal to people lands in the Orinoco, on the island of Imataca, that it would be very convenient to found two Spanish towns, one “on the lands of the Orinoco, on the south ‘© of the Western extremity of the aforesaid island of ‘‘Tmataca, and the other from eight to twelve leagues “more to the east of the first.” As Archbishop LAUD proposed to force Episcopalianism upon the Puritans ot New England, at the point of the bayonet, so did INCIARTE intend ‘ by apostolic blows and knocks, to “prove his doétrine orthodox.” It ‘ would, further- “ more be very necessary,” wrote this militant coloniser, “to send eight missionaries with a suitable escort to * subje€t the numerous Indians, Mariosas, Guaraunos “and Caribbeans, who inhabit that neighbourhood. I * do not think that it would be difficult to subjeét them, “ especially if they were given to understand that they “ would be left in their own lands, as the great obstacle “to their conversion has been hitherto that they have “ been carried away from these fertile lands and taken “ into others, almost barren.” Again: “If the lower Orinoco is not populated, the pro- “vince of Guiana, far from being profitable to the “ Royal Treasury, will be very expensive as it has been SS aoa py ‘bh a VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW. 67 “hitherto; of all of this Your Excellency, can be in- “ formed, if you find it necessary, by DON ANTONIO BAR- * RETO, Captain of the veteran Companies of Guiana and “by the aforesaid DON MANUEL FERAN, both residents ** of this city, well acquainted with the lands in question, “especially the latter who has property and has made “many trips on the river; both of them persons well- “ known for their veracity and notorious honesty.” The foregoing statements of INCIARTE indisputably prove that, even within limits to which neither Dutch nor English have pressed their claims, the authority of the Spaniards was not respected by the Indians. Quite as clear is it, that the lands in that region were not occupied by the Spaniards. The occupation of the Eastern portion of the lower Orinoco, and particularly of the frontiers of the Colony of Essequibo, was, in December, 1783, still a matter of ‘to-morrow ”’ with the Spaniards. In the last paragraph of his Report INCIARTE wrote :— * As regards the populating of the eastern part of the “aforesaid lower Orinoco and of the frontiers of the “Colony of Essequibo, for which I have teen commis- “ sioned, I beg to refer Your Excellency to what I have ** stated both to Your predecessor and to His Excellency **DoN JOSE DE GALVEZ in my report of 27 November, “one thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine; but * hearing that the French have taken possession of the _ “ aforesaid. colony of Essequibo during the war, for which “ reason the Dutch have abandoned the advanced post “which they held on the banks of the river Moruca, ** which post it is most important to occupy before any “new event takes place, I am of opinion that it would 12 TAM Sea 68 , TIMEHRI. ON aah eR Te “be very convenient and necessary to provisionally * fortify it, and to establish there a town with the native “ Indians who inhabit the neighbourhood, appointing for “this obje€t two missionaries with a detachment to serve “as escort; in this manner the inhabitants of said colony “ will be prevented from entering the lands which lie “ between them and the Orinoco; as this cannot be of ‘* great expense to the king, it will be of use when it is “intended to populate the other points of my mission ** with Spaniards, as they will more easily find there the * necessaries of life with the exception of meat.” The Spaniards did not occupy the post of Moruca. Their intention to do so got no further than Wanana/ The post was fortified by the Dutch, and was held by them against a Spanish attack, on the roth January, 1797. The Dutch were not, ** prevented from entering the lands which lie between them and the Orinoco.” Tothe Spaniards, A macura, Barima and Moruca, were little more than names. This is shown by the bare state- ments about them which ALCEDO gives in his Dictionary, as will be noted in the subjoined extraéts, and in which those places are claimed for Spain :— ‘* Amacuro, a river in the same province, (Cumana), ‘* which runs towards the x. and joins the Orinoco at its ‘** large mouth, called De Navios. “© Barima, a small river of the province and government *“of Cumana in the Kingdom of Tierra Firme ; it rises ‘in the middle of the szerra of Imataca, runs z, and «enters the sea at the same mouth of the Orinoco, which, ** on account of its size, is called De Navios. ‘““ Barima, a point or strip of land of the same pro- ‘‘yince and government ; it is one of those which form VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW, 66 *‘ the principal mouth of the river Orinoco, and is on the “ left side. “ Moruga, a river of the province and government of “ Cumana. It rises in the sverra of Imataca, and enters “the sea near the river Pomeroon, in the Distriét pos- “ sessed by the Dutch.” As regards the Treaty of Cession, in 1814, by which the property in the Dutch Colonies to the North of Suri- nam, passed to the British, there is the following note (p. 173) in Venezuelan International Law :— “ 7814.—A Convention was concluded in this year “ between the Netherlands and Great Britain, by which “the former ceded to the latter some of her colonies in “ America, conforming to the limits which were recog- “ nized at the time.” The following is the clause in the Convention of 1814, that transferred the Dutch Settlements to Great Britain :-— “ Tn consideration of the engagements above mentioned, “ the Prince Sovereign of the Netherlands consents to “ cede in all sovereignty to His Britannic Majesty, the “ Cape of Good Hope and the establishments of Dem- * erara, Essequibo and Berbice, on condition, however, “that the subjects of H. R. H. the Prince Sovereign, “who own property in said colonies or establishments, “shall be at liberty (saving the regulations which shall “be agreed upon in a supplementary convention) to “ navigate and trade between said establishments and “the territories of said Prince Sovereign in Europe.” The pretence of the Venezuelans, that, in ceding the ‘ establishment’ of Essequibo, the Dutch did not cede the right. bank of that river, to Great Britain, is nothing less HO TIMEURL. than an outrage upon the comity of Nations. It is not praéticable for Great Britain to treat upon the question of Boundaries so long as this insult is indulged in by the Republic. One has only to look at the Map of Essequibo, prepared, in 1798, by Major VON BOUCHENRQEDER, to realize that the whole of the West Coast of Essequibo was, at that time, not only occupied, but also cuitivated. Every bit of that coast was then lotted out in plantations of Coffee, Cotton and Sugar, or otherwise. Some of the plantations had even been thrown out of cultivation, This is shown as far as, and including, the Pomaroon, which is, indeed, the oldest part of the Dutch Colony, dating its foundation from 1580. VON BOUCHENROEDER’S chart was prepared for the Committee of the Colonies and Posses- sions of the Batavian Republic, at a time when Holland was under French influence, and when both those Coun- tries were at war with Great Britain, in the very year of the Battle of the Nile. It was not prepared for the British Government. The Venezuelans cannot produce any chart of Spanish Guiana of that date, giving any like proofs of Spanish occupation in the part of Guiana that Venezuela is in possession of. However, Venezuelans allege that when, in 1845, Spain recognized the Independence of their Republic, it was held by the Venezuelans that their territory was the same as that of the Captain Generalship of Venezuela had been under the Spanish Crown. The extent of that territory, they add, was described in an order of the King of Spain, issued in 1768, in which His Majesty decreed that ‘‘ the “ province of Guiana was bounded on the South by the ‘© Amazon, on the East by the Atlantic Ocean”; “so that,” says Senor URBANEJA, writing to Sir SPENSER ST, JOHN, VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL Law. nt on the 26th of January 1887, “ the acquisitions of other “ Powers within those limits were not valid until they “were made lawful by the posterior consent of said ‘Monarch.’ (Venezuelan International Law, pp. 540 to 549-) If the consent of the Spanish Sovereign was not given to the colonizing of the Dutch in Guiana, that Monarch, nevertheless, gave official recognition to those Colonies, as is shown by documents published by the Venezuelan Government. On page 126, will be found treaties be- tween Spain and Holland, in 1797, for the supply by Spain, at the expense of the Dutch, of troops to garrison Surinam, to proteét that colony and adjacent places from Foreign aggression. Surely, recognition could not be of a more valid nature, than the supplying of a Spanish Force for maintaining those possessions for the Dutch ! Then, there is the Treaty of Aranjuez, on the 23rd of June, 1791, by which fugitive slaves and soldiers were to be returned, when they escaped from the Spanish ‘‘ estab- lishments”’ on the Orinoco and the Dutch ‘‘ Colonies,” Essequibo, Demerara, Berbice, and Surinam. This, by the way: for the Dutch had really no need for “ the pos- “‘ terior consent of said monarch” of Spain. This brings us to what the Dutch “held and possessed ” in connection with the Essequibo, and to what the Spanish “held and possessed” in connection with the Orinoco. The Spanish fortified outpost in Guiana was San Thomé, or Angostura, about 240 miles up the Orinoco, on its right Bank. In those days of sailing ves- sels, SanThomé was about 5 to 15 days’ journey goingdown to Barima Point, and 20 to 25 days’ going back. Moruca, on the other hand, would be a day or two’s sail to Barima 92 TIMEHRI. Point, by sea. But, there is a short-cut by inland navi- gation, between those two Rivers, and boats could pass, in a day, from the Moruca to the Barima. Indeed, it was a common thing for Dutchmen and Aboriginals to pass to the Orinoco itself, by means of the rivers, and especi- ally by the use of the Mora Channel, which conneéts the Waini and Barima Rivers. Having a Fort at Moruca, and such easy means of movement to the Orinoco itself, one can understand why the Dutch did not find it necessary to maintain the Fort on Barima Point» that they had there as early as 1660. From Moruca, the Dutch could exercise complete control up to Amacura, with the help of their Carib allies. When the Settle- ments from time to time surrendered to the British Forces, orders were sent to the Commander at the post at Moruca, among others, as to the Capitulation of the Colony. The faét that the Spanish Arawaks sought refuge under British Rule in 1818 to 1830, at Moruca, shows that the Aboriginals of Guiana knew that the Venezuelans did not possess that country. The fa& that about 150 Spanish Royalists, fleeing from the power of the successful Revolutionists at Angostura, sought refuge in the Pomaroon Distriét, in 1817, shows that the Spanish Colonists of Venezuela knew that the British possessed that part of Guiana. [See the M/znutes of the Legislature of the Colony, 8th September 1817, in which the Go- vernor is reported as saying, that. he had sent an officer and 25 soldiers to the Pomaroon to maintain order]. The name of the settlement of Essequibo had been extended by degrees, as the Dutch occupied and possessed the neighbouring rivers. It grew in this wise, because the Government of the outlying places VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW. 73 had its Headquarters in Essequibo. The same expan- sion of meaning will be found in the names of Deme- rara and Berbice. The principal settlement, which held the seat of Government, gave its name to the distri€éts dependent. The operations of the rule may be observed in our own time: the whole colony of British Guiana being frequently spoken of as ‘*‘ Deme- rara, merely: the most important portion of it. This usage prevails among people living within the Colony, and among outsiders as well. In the same way, the names of Surinam and Cayenne, are oftentimes used in- stead of Dutch Guiana and French Guiana, the all- embracing terms. Now, what do we find as regards the expansion of the name of Venezuela itself 2? In Lippin- cott’s Gazetteer of the World (Philadelphia: 1857), is the following statement :— “When OJEDA and VESFUCCI entered the lake of “¢ Maracaybo, in 1499, they were surprised to find there “an Indian village construéted of piles over the water, “‘ the banks of the lake being thought unhealthy. They “called the insular village Venezuela (the diminutive “of Venezia or Venice), a name subsequently given to “ the lake, and ultimately to the surrounding country,” To the foregoing statement must be added the faét that the name of Venezuela was extended further, at a later date, so as to include that part of the mainland on the other side of the Orinoco, that properly formed Spanish Guiana. That the Convention of 1814 was understood by the Dutch, and by the English, in a very different manner to that affected by the Venezuelans, will readily be seen. The Convention mentions the “establishment ” of Berbice, K 74 TIMEHRI. wp a Se ee ae which is on that side of British Guiana next to Dutch Guiana. According to the Venezuelan manner of interpre- tation, the Cession would have extended only to the left Bank of the Berbice. As a fact, the Dutch have never questioned the right of the British, through that Cession, to the whole water-shed of the Berbice; to that of the Canje, and right up to the left bank of the River Coren- tyne. As between the Dutch and English, there could be no room for argument as to the extent of territory in- cluded in the “ establishment,” or “ Colony or establish- ment ” (as the Convention of the roth and 13th of August, 1814, has it), of Essequibo. JAN JACOB HARTSINCK, an official of the Dutch West India Company, who had lived in Dutch Guiana, wrote a History of the Dutch Settlernents in Guiana, which was published in Holland in 1770. In the XXII Chapter of his book, HARTSINCK wrote as follows :— “ Dutch Guiana is divided firstly into the Colony of “ Essequibo, fo which the river Bonweron, or Poumeron “ and adjacent rivers and district appertain” * * HARTSINCK says as to the Western Boundary :— ‘Some place Dutch Guiana west with the river ‘ Baryma, lying 8 degrees, 5 minutes north latitude, “ which empties itself in the Oronoque—others again ‘west of the river Waine, situate about five leagues “ east of the Oronoque.”’ HARTSINCK subsequently says :— “ The first rivers which we meet with in Dutch Guiana, “coming from the Oronoque are the creeks or rivers “ Baryma, about a mile broad, where formerly we had a “ post ; three miles further the Amachara” (A macura) “ of the same breadth, which like the before-mentioned VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAw. 75 “ empty themselves in the Oronoque, fully three miles to ‘the east of the creek, Mocco Moco; two miles further “again the River Waine, three-fourths of a mile broad, “‘ but shallow.” [Beschryving van Guiana of de Wilde Kust tn Zuid America, Essequebo, Demerara, Ber- bice, Suriname, 1770.| NHARTSINCK then makes men- tion of Moruca and Pomaroon: but there is no reason to give full particulars as regards those places. It is, however, well to note one faét mentioned by him, as to the fortification at Moruca. He says that the fortified post was ‘‘at present fallen into decay.” As his book was published in 1770, the fortified post must have existed years before to have “fallen into decay” at the date mentioned. There are, in fa€t, records in British Guiana, showing that Moruca had been fortified years before 1770. The place was re-fortified after 1770 ; and, on the roth of January, 1797, the Dutch severely defeated, at Moruca, a Spanish expedition that had come over, from the Left Bank of the Orinoco, to attack the place. There may be some excuse for the Spaniards not know- ing the boundaries of the Colony ot Essequibo.* Tothem the region on the Eastern side of the Lower Orinoco was “an unknown Country.” There can, however, be no excuse for Venezuelans of to-day pretending a right to the Western bank of the Essequibo. ALCEDO, prejudiced as he was against the Dutch, describes Essequibo as “4 large District and River.” Hesays the Dutch Colony * Even so far into the Nineteenth Century as the year 1840, Vene- zuelans were profoundly ignorant of the nature of the Settlements in British Guiana. In that year their infallible topographer, Codazzi, actually placed the Capital of the British Colony, on the left Bank of the Demerara! [British Blue Book, p. 238.] K 2 76 TIMEHRI. We ei ng le ale ale ele a a was on both banks of the Essequibo, and gives the Pomaroon as the Boundary. For years before the Cession of 1814, and for years afterwards, the Rubrics to the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Legislature of Essequibo and Demerara, cited Essequibo and its dependent districts. This faét can be noted in the Rubric to the Minutes of the Proceedings of the last Meeting held while the Colonies remained under Dutch Rule, wherein appear the words en onder- hoorige districten, which are equivalent to and dependent districts, in English. On the 18th of September, 1803, the Colonies capitu- lated to the British Forces. The following is the Rudric of the Minutes of the Court of Policy held on that day :-— Notul eener gecombineerde Krygsraad gehouden by den Gouveneur Generaal en de Raaden van Politie der Rivieren en onderhoorige Districten van Essequebo en Demerary, mttsgaders de Commandeeren de Officteren der Bataafsche Land en Zeemagt, ten Gouvernenments Huize en Rio Demerary. In the year following the Capitulation, 1804, the British Governor addressed a letter to the Governor of Spanish Guiana, as to the Governor of Angostura, simply. In the Commission, dated 4th March, 1831, by which the Colonies of Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice were united together in the single Government of British Guiana, Sir BENJAMIN D’URBAN was constituted and appointed Governor over all the British Settlements on the Northern Coast of the Continent of South America, ** comprising all such territories and jurisdi€tions as “ have hitherto been comprised in the said united colony VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL LAW, 17 “of Demerary and Essequebo and the said colony of “ Berbice respectively, with thetr respective dependen- “ cies.” In Rubrics to Minutes of the Proceedings of the Legislature, for years after 1831, the Colony and Depen- cies of British Guiana are cited. No better illustration could be given of the manner in which the name of a portion of the Dutch possessions was made to stand for the whole, than the way this was done, on a memorable occasion, by the Spanish Govern- ment itself. In 1796, the Dutch Colonies of Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo, came into the possession of the British. On the 5th of O€tober, in the same year, Spain declared war against Great Britain. One of the grounds given by the King of Spain, for making war, was the recent conquest, by the British, of the Dutch Settlements in the neighbourhood of the Orinoco, And how did the King of Spain name those settlements ? He lumped them all in the name, not even of Essequibo, but, of Demerara. Here are the very words used in the Declaration of War against Great Britain :— * * * “ And lastly by the conquest she has just ** made on the continent of South America of the Colony “and River of Demerari belonging to the Dutch, which ‘“‘ advantageous situation puts her in the way to occupy ** other important points.” Among the “ other important points,” thus referred 'to, were “the Provinces of Orinoco and Caracas.” This much is indicated in a Despatch of the roth June, 1796, from the Spanish Ambassador in London to the Prince DE LA PAZ, (British Boundary Blue Book: p. 137). The British Blue Book states, further (p. 20), that “a ‘* Spanish Memorandum of 1797, expresses the fear that 78 TIMEHRI. ‘the English were about to take the River Orinoco, “and sweep the whole of the Spaniards out of that “territory” | Archivo de Indias. Confidential. Papers, Carac. 1790-1796, bundle B.|. Is it not clear, from the foregoing, that the Spanish Government knew that the Dutch Settlements extended to the very mouth of the Orinoco? The Liberator of South America, the heroic BOLIVAR, is quoted in Venezuelan International Law (p. 174), as having “ decreed” that Fort Moruca, “ not included,” was the Venezuelan Boundary. Here is the statement of the Venezuelan Foreign Office :— “ 1817.—On the 15th of O€tober, 1817 the Liberator * issued his decree concerning the limits of the Depart- ‘ments of Venezuela; and in fixing those of the Lower “ Orinoco, he says :—‘ North of the shores of the Orinoco “ “ from the mouth of the Caroni as far as the mouth into “the sea through Rio Grande, and to the sea-coast as “far as Fort Maraca, not included; on the East and “South the limits of foreign possessions ; on the West “© those determined for the central Department on the “ } Special Expedition ...C, W. Anderson. Pomeroon ... ...B. B. Garraway. coanuts ... Cocoa Beans »PlIn, Vryheid .»»Hon, A. Weber. ‘i eee »..Pln. Le Désir vee = Creole Liberian Coffee.. ,, sy oan ae os ” Mocha 3 ” 2 a5 soe 2 » Liberian ,, Pin. Vriedestein .».John Junor. ” Mocha ” ” ” vee ” » Guinea Corn .., ,, Cane Garden, Lgn..N. Chee.a- Wong, ©" Yellow Plantain’s ” : \ ... Harry Bellaire. nest one Mahooka (bird) ++» 5, Enmore ... .»» J. Colley, Poisonous Coral Snake..Race Course... .»Jack & Bertie Waby. Bat... ae ...Botanic Gardens aan Ae Blue Crane & Caraow...West Coast .., .N, Greenidge. Pi-pi-toori’s nest ...Georgetown ... .5. A. Williams. Nest of Cotton-bird .., Ve aoe .»» W. Sharp. » grey Kiskadie... i “te “Ec Ke Tobacco... ...grown at Cane Garden..N, Chee-a-Wong. A special vote was accorded to Mr. F. V. McConnell for the photographs of scenes in the interior taken by the McConnell—Quelch expedition in 1894. The meeting then terminated. BB 2 196 ~‘TIMEHRI. Meeting held March roth, 1896.—His Excellency Cavendish Boyle, C.M.G., President, in the chair. Members present 16. Eleétions.—Memdbers: Hon. C. P. Gaskin, and Messrs. McD’Almeida, A. E. H. Swift, J. H. Bell, E. B. Simpson Gray, and W. C. Shankland. Associates: Messrs. W. S, Wainwright, William Marsh, and Francis Mathias. In conneétion with the minutes of the meeting held on the r1th of July last, Mr. Quelch said he wished to make a correction. In referring to a rather scarce boa he had said that so great was the resemblance, that it even had anterior teeth similar in shape to the fangs of poisonous snakes, and might be easily mistaken by those not familiar with the structure of poisonous snakes. The President then said that the Direétors of the Society had that afternoon decided to propose Mr. G, S. Jenman as an honorary member, for the reasons that it would be highly desirable to have his assistance as Gov- ernment Botanist, and because such Societies as this in other colonies, usually ele€ted such officials to honorary membership. In. accordance with the Bye-Laws he would be balloted for at the next meeting. The annexed communication from the Agricultural Committee was read .— Georgetown, March rath, 1896. To the President and Members of the R, A. & C, Society. Gentlemen,—In accordance with the regulations of the Government, under which the Society obtains free analyses of articles of general interest, by the Government Chemist, I have the honour to lay over Four Reports by Professor Harrison, on Canes at different stages of growth, which the Committee consider to be of great importance in REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 197 conneétion with similar analyses which have been reported from time to time. « Ihave the honour, &c., S. BELLAIRS, Secretary, Agricultural Committee, Composition of Canes and Megass. Sample of Canes from Ruimveld, October gist, 1895. CANES NOT ARROWED. Water... ae Sucrose ... KAS Glucose ... Albuminoids Wax Digestible fibre... Woody fibre she Mineral matters... Gums, etc... Total fibre ot Total sugars in canes Megass from canes Factor to convert sugar in juice to sugar in canes Canes. a6 of. . 73°82 53°26 as See 7 769 ees Seay be J “70 - - "39 "67 04 17 3°96 15°22 we sus (Seek 20°04. AIEEE of: _*76 : . 79 1°49 100°00 100°00 9°17 35°26 eb SOL Oey Bias ANS "8654 CANES WITH ARROWS JUST BURSTING. Water... Sucrose ... Glucose ... ao Albuminoids Se Digestible fibre... Woody fibre i? Wax eae Mineral matter . Gums, etc. An Total fibre Total sugars in canes Factor to convert sugar i sugar in canes a Megass from canes Canes. 8 ae 32 o/o. » 7EX3 5159 14°98 10°43 Rte COG *90 °39 *59 aes “ 518 16°31 “5 eens S330 16°75 ane Beets OO *30 aie ENE TS 102 Aas Kay Bah tors: 2°11 100°00 100°00 Are eo» 10°54 33°06 aie +» 16°04 in juice to 198 TIMEHRI. CANES WITH ARROWS PROJECTED AND BLOWN, Water... ane Sucrose ... eee Glucose ... aan Albuminoids oe Wax ay set Digestible fibre... Woody fibre ove Mineral Matter ... Gums, etc. ann Total Fibre Pe Total sugar in canes Faétor to convert sugar sugar in CaneS..« eee Canes, an 70/09 ee 14°95 wie R27 eee ‘S7 eee |» 00 seats OT Ry f Rey Soni, MOE 100°00 eos II'59 soe 16°22 in juice to Megass from canes 32°7 o/o. 50°89 8°75 8318 CANES WITH ARROWS DEAD IN SHEATH. Water... ake Sucrose ... wee Glucose ... “A Albuminoids ose Wax see Ree Digestible fibre ... Woody fibre vee Mineral matter sxe Gums, etc. as Total fibre tee Total sugars in canes Fa&tor to convert sugars sugar in canes... Canes. eee 72°00 oc cke as ese rms eee HY | eee "10 seer 14°90 “at 542 eee vy Ml § oe "74 100'00 eee 9.72 eee 16°30 in juice to Megass from canes 31 o/o. 55°30 9°24 "8506 The annexed letter to the President, from the same Committee, was laid over, it being a reply to certain _ REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 199 remarks in a letter of Mr. Thiselton-Dyer read at a late te of the Court of Policy :— Georgetown, Demerara, British Guiana, sth March, 1896, Sir,—The Agricultural Committee of the Royal Agricultural and Commerical Society of British Guiana have had under consideration the letter from Mr. Thiselton-Dyer to Mr. W. T. Wingfield, Colonial Office, dated 16th December, 1895, containing his observations on the report of the Commission for enguiring into “the best method of encouraging Banana and Fruit growing,” and also the wider question of Minor Industries in the Colony. As reference has been made to this Society, the Committee think that it is not advisable that Mr. Thiselton-Dyer’s letter should be allowed to pass without comment, as some of the statements contained in it might, if not protested against, mislead. In paragraph 3 of his letter, Mr. Thiselton-Dyer, commenting on the comparative values of Beetroot and Sugar cane as plants cultivated for the extraction of sugar, states that while the saccharine richness of beet has been enormously increased within recent years, that of the cane has remained almost stationary, and he cannot doubt that ‘‘the saccharine contents of the sugar cane might be immensely increased.” Mr. .Thisel- ton- Dyer appears to have overlooked the very important faét that while the cultivation of the beet for sugar extraction is a matter of only about one hundred years, that of the cane has existed from extreme antiquity, but has only in recent years received the attention of chemists and botanists. The experience of later years tends to show that the improvement of the saccharine richness of the beet has almost reached its limit, and that it is not likely that there will be anything like the same improvement in the future that there has been in the past. The planters of British Guiana have not been without interest, and very great interest, in this matter, although they have not had the in- centive of a possibility of profiting by a system of bounties that are so levied that every increase of saccharine richness in the plant is rewarded by a Government gift, for the continental Governments levied taxes on the beets and gave drawbacks on the sugar exported, so that every atom of sugar extracted in excess of what had been considered possible when the tax was imposed, received from the Government a tax which had never been paid by the manufacturer, 200 TIMEHRI. Most valuable information has been gathered from the numerous ex- periments carried on in this Colony ; especially from those undertaken at the Botanical Gardens under the able supervision of Mr, Jenman, Government Botanist, and Professor Harrison, Government Analyst, and whilst, up to date, the experiments have not definitely disclosed any cane of more practical value than the familiar “ Bourbon,” the experi» ments have not been wasted, as they have conclusively shewn that canes can be produced from seed, canes far exceeding in saccharine strength any yet cultivated, Steps are now being taken to test the agricultural value of these canes. In addition, the experiments have thrown most valuable side- lights on important matters connected with practical agriculture, such as the relative values of different manures, the effects of lime on the soil, &c., &c. Nor has the method alluded to by Mr. Thiselton-Dyer as, in his opinion, promising to result in canes of increased richness, been ignored by planters. The matter when first mooted, was freely discussed by this Committee, and as the experiment of planting land here with canes imported from Barbados, the saccharine strength of which is well known to be from one and a half to two per cent. higher than the average of the same kind raised locally, had been repeatedly carried out, and the results carefully watched, and in no instance was the saccharine strength of canes raised from those thus introduced, greater than that from canes raised locally ; it was not considered to be a method of any marked promise. Again Mr. Thiselton Dyer asserts:—‘‘ It is not the genius of the “ English people to apply the resources of science to industrial pursuits “in the way it is done by other nations.” This may or may not be true, but it has no bearing on the question, for after the word “ nations,” Mr. Thiselton-Dyer should have added “and Colonies,” In the first place, the Colonies that cultivate the sugar cane are far .from being exclusively English, yet the application of the resources of science in British Guiana is certainly not less than in Cuba, Martinique, or any other Colony not under British rule, and it is worthy of note that constant applications are received in this British Colony, from foreign Countries and Colonies, for improved varieties of canes obtained by the application of the resources of science to industrial pursuits. The majority of the planters in this Colony are quite capable of ap- preciating the value of soil analyses, In faét a great many have been REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 201 made, several years ago. The Commission did not propose the systematic examination of soils as a “‘ panacea,” but fully recognized that it could only act as a guard against the cultivation of soils of doubtful fertility ; in our opinion a most important matter with relation to the successful attempts at minor agricultural industries. We would also point out that the question of expense raised by Mr. Thiselton- Dyer does not apply to this Colony, which possesses a fully equipped agricultural laboratory and a competent staff; the only additional ex- pense might possibly be a slight increase in the amount paid for fuel. Further on Mr. Thiselton-Dyer makes the trite remark, “ Barbados ‘is teeming with an industrious negro population. I have suggested **to Mr. Nevile Lubbock that the attempt might be made to transfer ** respectable families to Demerara.” This suggestion of Mr. Thiselton-Dyer is really very good, and it is very kind of him to make it. Kew must know much more about the Barbados negro than British Guiana can be supposed to do; but it isa little late, as attempts have been made for the last thirty years at least, and they have been attended with some success. Out of seven negroes in this colony, one, at least, will be found to be a native of the West Indies, chiefly of Barbados. Numerous incentives have been held out over and over again, to induce families to immigrate from Barbados, but experience shews that the average respectable Barbadian does not like exiling himself from his beloved island, and even if he does visit British Guiana he hopes to save a little money and return to his native land. Still, some have come to stay, and more would be very welcome. With regard to paragraph 6. The cultivation of coffee has received a great deal of attention from time to time, but in the past, as in the present, the question of the labour supply has interfered materially with the establishment of cultivation on a large scale, and it is not on account of sugar having crushed it out, that coffee estates have not been established. — With regard to paragraph 16, suggesting that the Government might scatter India Rubber seeds in suitable places; the question is to find such suitable places that are accessible. It is of no use to scatter seeds in the forest. The struggle for existence in a tropical forest is so keen, that out of fifty seeds scattered not one germinates; and out of five hundred that germinate scarce one attains any growth, As a proof of this, the well-known fact may be adduced, that when a clearing is made in the forest a ‘‘second growth” immediately springs up of itself cc 202 TIMEHRI. consisting of trees quite different to those cut down, and this second growth must spring from seeds that have been scattered many years ago and lain dormant for a very long time, waiting the chance of a ray of light to enable them to grow. Unless'India-Rubber seeds possess wonderful vitality they would die before the chance arrived, There is no cleared land in the interior that will grow trees. Whatever is suitable for trees is covered with forest. The only chance for these India-Rubber seeds would be to plant them on some land that has already been cleared, and to look after the trees when saplings. Hon, Cavendish Boyle. C.M.G., President, R. A. & C, Society, B.G. Consideration was postponed until the next meeting. A communication from the Government was read, informing the Society that the sum of $500 asked for in aid of the Horticultural Show, had been provided for on the Estimates for 1896-7. The Hon. Mr. Wolseley called attention to the de- sirability of a speedy publication of the new Catalogue of the Library, to which the Secretary, replied that it was in the hands of the printer and would be finished in about two months. A letter was read from Mr. F. V. McConnell, thanking the Society for ele€ting him a Corresponding Member. A letter from the Secretary of the Guiana Rice Come pany was also read. As the idea of forming this Com- pany originated with the Society, he hoped that they would do all in their power to further its formation. The thanks of the Society were awarded for the fol- lowing donations :— To the Library—from Mr. Alexander Lamb; Inter- national Guide to Merchants, &c. From Mr. A. H. Thomson; Photo of B. G. Gold Exhibit in London. REPORT OF SOCIETY’s MEETINGS. 203 To the Museum— Kola Samples... ...Land-of Canaan ...Chas. Ross. Fragment of teen} Mondeecil ¥ } Hon. Dr. Palmer Ross, skull ... seb C.M.G. Nest of Thrush ...Georgetown... ... W. Sharp. ° a Blackbird _... a5 Fe ms a as Ground Dove... Aa ape ves. E. Winter. ie Grass Bird ... 5 ts 35 Wren ... <4 + 54 te * . Old Witch ... * ae ose ” 4 Butterflies... a Barima: ce. 3 ...L. D’Oliveira. 2 Native Guinea Pigs ...Berbice ... eee ...Dr, Ireland. Spiny Caterpillar ...Georgetown... ...Dr, Anderson. Quartz pebbles... ...Coast California ...Mrs. Boggs. Branch, cut by Sawyer...Moruca ... oa ...J. L. Theobald. Tobacco, native grown..Georgetown ... ...G, Stevenson. Yellow-plantain’s nest... Buxton ... see .».Rebecca Thomas. Mygale Spider... ...Botanic Gardens ...Master Waby. Wood.-boring Bee _...Georgetown ... A, D. Ferguson. Papilio asterias aa UcedoAlen spe aes ...Dr. Frank Smith Silver Spider ... ...Georgetown ... ...L. S. Hohenkerk. Caligo Butterfly ..Supenaam Creek _ ...S. B, Warren. Two nests of Birds, } with eggs of a Finch f ” } % Papery nest of Mara- bunta... } > \ 2 One Polyporus fungus,.Georgetown ... ...Mrs, Edghill. 30 Fossil Sharks’ teeth,.Barbados St ...Prof, J. B. Harrison. Barbados half penny, 1792. ,, e ..»Miss Nellie Harrison. Colle&tion of Pottery and other remains, one handle in the form of a face The meeting then terminated. Indian Burial Mound and Settlement, Chateau Margot His Excellency Caven- dish Boyle. TSE Meeting held April gth.—Hon. Cavendish Boyle, C.M.G., President, in the chair. Members present 19. CC2 204 TIMEHRIL. Eleétions.— Honorary Member: Mr. G. S. Jenman. Ordinary Member: Mr. John Correia. Associates: Messrs. W. G. Lloyd and J. B. Spooner, The President said he had the greatest pleasure in announcing that His Excellency, Sir Augustus W. L. Hemming, had agreed to become Vice-Patron of the Society. He thought they might well proceed to ele&t His Excellency an Honorary Member at once. The proposal having been seconded by the Hon. E. C. Luard, it was carried unanimously. The annexed communication from the Committee of Correspondence was read :—= The Museum, April 9, 1896. R. T. A. Daly, Esq., Secretary, R. A. & C, Society. Sir,—I have the honour to report for the information of the Society, that several meetings of the Committee of Correspondence have lately been held for the furtherance of the objets of the Horticultural Show, which has been fixed for the 20th August next. A very detailed Prize- List, amounting to nearly six hundred dollars, has been framed, and is now being printed for wholesale distribution throughout the Colony. A very marked departure from previous Shows is now found in the estab- lishment of seétions in the Classes of Plants, Flowers and Floral Deco- rations, Fruits, Vegetables, and Economic Produéts, respectively, open only to Artisans and Labourers, while they are at the same time en- titled to exhibit in al! the general se€tions open to amateur exhibitors, for money prizes. Certain sizes for pots and tubs have been recom- mended; and Public Institutions have been invited to exhibit for Certificates of Merit only. Posters for distribution are being also prepared, and all steps taken to make the Show a success. I have the honour to be, Sir, &c., J. J. QUELCH, Secretary, On the matter of the Thiselton-Dyer letter being de- clared open to discussion :— REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 205 Mr. Vyle spoke of the desirability of having discussions when the papers were read, instead of leaving them over until the matter was forgotten. The Hon. Mr. Jones spoke of the results of the ex- periments on Seedling Canes made at the Botanic Gar- dens, which went to disprove Mr, Thiselton-Dyer’s assertion that nothing had been done by people in Demerara. The President said that the impression conveyed by Mr. Thiselton-Dyer’s letter was that they, as sugar growers, were behind the times. He was sure that if that gentleman had known of the work of Messrs. Jen- man and Harrison he would have written differently. The thanks of the Society were accorded for the following donations :— To the Museum:—A rare Grebe from the East Coast, presented by Mr. J. P. Allt; a moth by Mr. Eugene Stewart ; astone concretion from Mahdiana Creek by Mr. C. W. Anderson; a moth by Mr. A. Gordon; Urania leilus by Mr. A. Lennox; A nest of the thrush from Botanic Garden by Mr. G. S. Jenman ; a collection of beetles from Barima by Mr. A. A. Watson; three inse€ts from the Conawarook by Mr, Seyler; a large toad, a large frog, and snake and fungus-covered moth from North-West Distriét by Mr. G. S. Jenman, an abnormal egg of fowl by Mr. James Thomas, and a scissors-bill from Heeran. To the Library:—From Dr. Macnamara, 2 Vols. Sanitary Institute Transa€tions. Mr. Atneas D. Mackay gave notice of motion that the Dire&tors be respeétfully requested to nominate Messrs. R. T. A. Daly and F, A. Conyers, as Honorary Members. 206 - TIMEHRI. The President then said they were all aware that it was the wish of a large portion of the community, that an Agri- cultural Board should be formed, but ao decision of the authorities had been come to as yet. He had noticed that the Agricultural Society in Jamaica was doing very well, judging from the speech of Sir Henry Blake, its Chairman; He did not see why this colony should be behind Jamaica, and he thought it was the duty of the Society to consider what steps could be taken to establish a Model Farm. He was sure that it could be done, and if they helped themselves the authorities would grant assistance. Whatever might be the feeling as to the wisdom of maintaining such an institution by the colony, he had no doubt of its utility. He asked them to consider the matter and see if they could make any propositions at the next meeting. ps Mr. Jacob Conrad spoke in favour of such an institu- tion, and the matter was left over to the next meeting. The Hon. Mr. Wolseley said he had received a communication on the inoculation of soils with such baéteria as were beneficial to plants, and promised to bring up the matter at the next meeting. The meeting then terminated. Meeting held May 14th—Hon. E. C, Luard, Vice- President, in the chair. Members present, 16, Eleétions.—Memdbers : Hon. Dr. D. Palmer. Ross, Messrs. Ernest Simpson and J. C, de Mendonga, and Revds. T. Godson and S. R, Sales. REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 207 Associates ; Messrs. J. Harold Glover and B. V. Abraham, jnr. The Chairman read the annexed letter from the Presi- ‘dent :— Georgetown, Demerara, 28th April, 1896. Dear Mr. Luard,—I would beg you to express for me to the members of R. A. & C. Society the great regret I feel at being forced to leave the Colony during my year of office. It is only under compulsion that I have been induced to absent myself just now, as during the summer and autumn weather I had looked forward to a time of much useful work in the Society. I hope you will press on the project of the Model Farm. I trust, indeed, we may be able to carry it out ourselves, or, at any rate, start it. The Government, as you know, can do nothing now. Wishing you, the Society, and the Colony, every prosperity, Believe me, Most faithfully yours, CAVENDISH BOYLE. Hon. E. C. Luard, M.C.P., Vice-Pres. R. A, & C. Society. The following communication from the Agricultural Committee was taken for notification :— To the President and Members of the R. A. & C, Society. Gentlemen,—In accordance with the Government Regulations under which the Agricultural Committee of the Society are entitled to free analyses of articles of public interest by the Government Chemist, I have the honour to lay over five (5) reports on soils from Plns. Noitge- dacht and Le Desir, No. 1 Canal, which the Committee consider of very great importance in connection with Coffee cultivation. I have, &c., S. BELLAIRS, Hony. Secretary Agricultural Committee. P.S.—I have also the honour to lay over three samples of Ramie Fibre in different stages of manufacture, CERTIFICATE GF ANALYSIS Of a sample ot Soil marked “ Noitgedacht,” Canal No. 1. Good 208 TIMEHRI. Coffee soil; sent by the Agricultural Committee, R. A. & C. S; received Oétober 21st, 1895, The air-dried soil retained 6°7 per cent. of hygroscopic moisture. Composition of the Dry Soil. * Organic matters and combined water ae oie, | AOZ01 Phosphoric Anhydride ... ays aoe $65 028 Sulphuric Anhydride _... ams oe saa "682 Chlorine AS eer ave nee ... traces, Iron Peroxide ... oes ere see ao 2'915 Iron Protoxide ... aes et Ses ae 2°15! Alumina soe as a8 xe sat 4°662 Calcium Oxide... 5 Be Aes Bae *300 Calcium Carbonate eas we oie .. none, Magnesium Oxide nes re bas eee *424 Potassium Oxide ) set apa m5 228 Sodium Oxide ... rs cae cae eet 178 Insoluble Silica and Silicates aes Ae sie 72 TAL 100°000 CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS. Of a sample of Soil marked “ Noitgedacht,” Canal No. 1; soil from place where Liberian Coffee had died; sent by the Agricultural Com- mittee, R. A. & C. S.; received October 21st, 1895. The air-dried soil retained 6°7 per cent. of hygroscopic moisture. Composition of the Dry Soil. + Organic matters and combined water oes see'l) AOI Phosphoric Anhydride .., ne bse sts *040 Sulphuric Anhydride... Ay Baa ag *683 Chlorine ae oo ass cee «. traces, é Iron Peroxide ... ese ane ace os = 2°229 Iron Protoxide ... hy. Aes ay Bp Cte Alumina aan AF, Bre sy Sao) Fee Calcium Oxide ... =e cas ee eas *300 Calcium Carbonate wes oye a »- traces, Magnesium Oxide Py ne zen ape 318 Potassium Oxide nt at 4y: 4 124 Sodium Oxide ... he wa ae 236 Insoluble Silica and Silicates ake Sie weet) JOSEY 100°000 * Containing Nitrogen ... An ade ave 1°42 ¢ Containing Nitrogen... Sap on dss *240 REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 209 CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS Of a sample of Soil from Plantation Le Desir, Canal No. 1; marked Liberian Coffee soil (burnt Soil); sent by the Chairman of the Agricul- tural Committee, R. A & C.S.; received August 24th, 1895. The air-dried soil retained 12.7 per cent. of hygroscopic moisture. Composition of the Dry Soil. * Organic matter and combined water See «- 14810 Phosphoric Anhydride ... des = aC "221 ’ Sulphuric Anhydride... ne aes re *389 Chlorine aC as ay pee -.. traces, Iron Peroxide ... ap ea es ee Gane Alumina AS ot a0 ag eetraalorsas Manganese Oxide Bae ade aoe ... traces. Calcium Oxide... AE ae Jan ois 765 Calcium Carbonate ae fas ee ah ‘008 Magnesium Oxide “oe one ee ahs "515 Potassium Oxide “We eee “i AS “378 Sodium Oxide... es ane aha 44 *358 Insoluble Silica and Silicates .... = ae) 597559 100'c00 Remarks : —This is a soil of remarkable fertility, the fires which have formerly swept over it having altered its mechanical charaéter, and at the same time set free or rendered available large proportions of the soil constituents. It is-now too light for Cocoa cultivation, but admir~ ably adapted for the growth of Liberian Coffee. The sample represents about 18 inches to two feet in depth of the soil. CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS Of a sample of Soil from Plantation Le Desir, Canal No.1. Marked Cacao Soil, Sent by the Agricultural Committee, R A. &C.S. Re- ceived August 24th, 1895. The air dried soil retained 6'5 per cent. of Hygroscopic Moisture. * Containing Nitrogen... ste axe aes "327 210 TIMEHRI. Composition of the Dry Soil, * Organic Matters and combined water Age ace), PQIORE Phosphoric Anhydride bee a aes °087 Sulphuric Anhydride... ves oop rs “018 Chlorine =H ee ped Bas sents TKAGEs Iron Peroxide ... aa nae Be EAM: Rrkste? Alumina ays aa a3 one SE Oeee Manganese Oxide eee Sao ane oie "347 Calcium Oxide . Hele ses Sue cee 590 Calcium Carbonate ane “a =e “43 "032 Magnesium Oxide Kes ase "404 Potassium Oxide ase ace das see "201 Sodium Oxide ... nee 5 ne dee ‘208 Insoluble Silica and Silicates Si ee 74°986 100°00 Remarks :—A soil of very great fertility, in its chemical composition well adapted for the successful and long continued cultivation of canes. CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS Of a sample of Soil from Pln. Le Desir, Canal No. 1, marked Soil from Dam where Coffee tree had died; sent by the Agricultural Com- mittee, R. A.& C.S.; received August 24th, 1895. The air-dried sample retained 7'9 per cent. of hygroscopic moisturee Composition of the Dry Soil. + Organic matter and combined water «. 10°382 Phosphoric Anhydride ves ‘O12 Sulphuric Anhydride... ave se ous “101 Chlorine -.. traces, Iron Peroxide ... A nee Alumina Manganese Guide Calcium Oxide.. Calcium Céthounte Magnesium Oxide Potassium Oxide Sodium Oxide ... vex Insoluble Silica and Silicates * Containing Nitrogen ¢ Containing Nitrogen REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 2ii Remarks :—The figures obtained do not show any reason for the death of the coffee tree. With the exception of phosphoric acid, which the soil is very deficient in, the important constituents of plant food are present in high proportions, and the soil appears to be-a very tertile one. Possibly the phosphates present were not sufficient for the healthy growth of the tree, but this is a very doubtful point. The Honorary Treasurer laid over the list of unpaid subscriptions to date, in accordance with the By-Laws. The following communication from the Committee of Correspondence was read :-— The Museum, May 14th, 1896. R. T. A. Daly, Esq., Hon. Setty., R. A. & C. Soéty. Sir,—I have the honour to report, from the Committee of Corres- pondence, that all the preliminary arrangements have been made for the holding of the Annual Horticultural and Poultry Show, in the Promenade Gardens, on Thursday, August 2oth next. Posters and Prize-lists have been distributed broadcast over the Colony, and the greater number of the public men in the country distriéts have been asked to assist, in every way possible, to further the objects of the Show. Such assistance is already being given, and it is to be hoped that tbe Show will be greatly benefited thereby, I have the honour to be, Sir, &c., J. J. QUELCH, Secretary, Committee of Correspondence. Mr. Eneas D. Mackay asked that his motion, of which he had given notice at the previous meeting, be allowed to drop, as he found that under the By-Laws, by eleéting the Treasurer and Secretary Honorary Members, they would be prevented from holding office. Mr. A. Duncan gave notice of motion as follows :— “That at the next meeting I shall ask an expression of opinion as to the desirability of establishing a branch of the Navy League in this Colony, for the purpose of giving moral support to the British Govern. ment in maintaining the supremacy of the British Navy; and take what further action may appear necessary.” DD2 212 TIMEHRI. Letters from His Excellency the Governor and Mr. G. S. Jenman, were read, thanking the Society for eleéting them Honorary Members. The following extra€&ts from newspapers were for- warded by the Hon. W. A. Wolseley and read :— FROM THE CORRESPONDENT OF THE “ STANDARD.” At the last meeting of the German Agricultural Society, Dr. Thiel, of the Prussian Ministry of Agriculture, stated that the experiments that have been carried on for a long time past by Herren Hall, Riegel, Notbe, and others, with a view to ascertaining how the baéteria of the soil may be rendered useful, have been crowned with success, so far as the bacteria necessary for the assimilation of nitrogen and the successful cultivation of leguminous plants dependent upon it are concerned. Herr Notbe has succeeded in cultivating these bacteria on a large scale. He is,con- vinced that the sowing of these baéteria will make soils which need them more produétive in a cheaper and more convenient way than the method of inoculating suitable earth invented some years ago. The expense pf treating a Prussian morgen, about four-eighths of an English acre, by the bacterial method, will be about half a-crown. If this method stands the test of practical experience, attempts to cultivate other kinds of nitrogen-producing baéteria will be made. EXTRACT FROM THE GERMAN AGRICULTURAL PAPER, “ THE PRESS,” NO. 16, 1896, In the sitting of the 19th February, the President, Professor Dr, Orth, before opening the regular business, requested Dr. Thiel to give information respecting the latest experiments of the most interesting and praétical nature It was with regard to the important question, which had been prominently raised by the lately deceased Hellreger, Dr. Salfeld, Dr. Robbe and others, as to utilising the various soil baéteria for agricultural purposes, With one kind. namely, with the baéteria necessary for the successful cultivation of the nitrogen collecting leguminosz the experiments have so far prospered, that it has been found possible to cultivate this special species on a large scale Dr Robbe, thanks to whom this success has been attained, has entrusted the preparation of same to the Hoshster Faétory who have the necessary appliances, and who prepare the well. known diptheria-verum, and this Company will soon place in. the market in bottles these leguminosa-bacteria cultivations Jn use, the REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 213 gelatine contents will simply have to ke dissolved in water, and distri- buted in a rational manner in the soil. It might also be considered whether it would not be advantageous to steep the seed in such a solution in a similar way as seed is steeped or disinfeéted against rust. According to preliminary calculations the cost of this impregnation of the soil, in order to make it capable of growing leguminosz would be about 2/6, (the report does not say per acre or what), and therefore much cheaper than the vaccination with impregnated earth, as tried some years ago. Should the proposed system prove practicable, it would open up in other direCtions the widest and most valuable pros- pects, of which one need merely mention the cultivation of the nitrifying bacteria. It is now well known that this most important plant food in its various more or less valuable forms—free atmospheric nitrogen, ammonia, nitric acid and the intermediate forms—are produced by kinds of bacteria quite definite and distin& from one another. Should it prove possible to cultivate them artificially on a large scale, this would result in our being able to use the atmospheric nitrogen, to conserve farmyard manure, and to intensify the effect of artificials. However, in order to see what is possible, practical experiments with the first mentioned bacteria on a large scale must be made. Professor Harrison thought that these suggestions were hardly applicable to this colony, and Mr. Quelch called attention to the faét that as yet the matter was only in the experimental stage. On the suggestion of Mr. Jacob Conrad the papers were referred to the Agricultural Committee. The following notes on the cultivation of tobacco were read, they having been forwarded to Mr. Afneas D. Mackay, by Mr. G. E. Tuckett, Hamilton, Canada :— Preparation of Seed Bed, Brushwood or cordwood is burnt on the spot intended to plant the seed bed, This is to destroy the weeds that may be present, and enrich the soil. Some burn several cords in 30 to 40 feet square. This seed bed is thoroughly pulverized, making the soil firm. Growing. After plants have grown large enough in this seed bed, they are transplanted The soil for growing tobacco should be rich and well 214 _ ‘TIMEHRI. cultivated. In transplanting, place the plants about 3 feet apart. As the plants grow, “suckers” appear, that is, growths from the stalk at the surface of the ground. These suckers or growths must be taken off as they interfere with the development of the leaf. Harvesting. When plant is ripe, harvest before the frost comes. Cut the plant near the ground and hang up the stalks on sticks about 4 feet long 13 inches wide, triangular shape, and keep from rain. Most growers have tobacco barns about 24 feet square. The tobacco is hung up in this barn, A fire place is arranged ata sufficient distance from the lower stalks so as not to injure them, and the heat from this fire-place aids in curing the tobacco. Fire is kept up for nearly a week until the tobacco is cured. Leaves are then stripped off the stalk, About 6 or 8 leaves are put together, called in tobacco language “a hand.” One of the leaves is used to bind the others together at the butt end. These hands are again hung up on sticks about 4 feet long, under shelter, until the sap is out of their stem, which is easily seen by the stem breaking when bent. The tobacco is now transferred to a pile or bulk, circular, about 12 feet in diameter and as high as a man can reach comfortably. The butt end or large part of the stem must be piled towards the outside. In the bulk, the tobacco remains 3 or 4 months, and goes through a natural sweat. If care has been taken to have the stem properly dried before it is put into the bulk, when put into hhds. or cases it will carry to any part of the world without moulding, Tobacco that once moulds is of no use for commerce. Soon after tobacco has been growing a large worm will appear on it, which must be picked off. The Orange Judd Publishing Company of New York have a pamphlet on tobacco growing, consisting of prize essays from the largest growers in the States. If you send for this you will have a full exposition of the growing and curing. I have given you a brief outline which will enable you to start. Mr. Mackay said that Mr. Tuckett was not only a tobacco manufaéture but also the owner of several plan- tations in the Southern United States. The Chairman said he believed that the cigars manu- fa€tured here were made up with imported tobacco, and REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 215 he stated that he was empowered to offer a prize of $50, for the best essay on growing tobacco and the manufac- ture of cigars from the colonial produét. Mr. Hargreaves said he had seen cigars prepared from tobacco grown by Mr, Lobo, he believed in Leguan, Mr, Julius Conrad mentioned that Mr. John Junor had shipped ten pounds of tobacco to Londonin March last, and that the report of the trial of this might shortly beexpe€ted. The annexed communications on coffee growing in Southern India were read :— Government Secretariat, British Guiana, 14th April, 1896. Sir,—I have the honour by dire€tion of the Governor to enclose heres with, for the information of the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society, a communication which has been received from Mr. Robert S. Mitchell, C.M.G., Emigration Agent for British Guiana, Calcutta, on the subject of Coffee Growing in Southern India; together with a minute by Mr, Jenman thereon,—I have the honour to be, &c., CAVENDISH BOYLE. Government Emigration Office, 21, Garden Reach, Calcutta, 14th February, 1896. Sir,—I have the honour to submit for His Excellency’s information, a Minute on coffee cultivation in Southern India which should prove of great value to those about to engage in the cultivation of this staple in the Colony. It will be observed that high cultivation has produced almost fabulous pecuniary results on soils inferior to those of British Guiana, and with a smaller rainfall not nearly so well distributed, in the face too of such plagues as the leaf-disease and severe hail storms, I have, &c., (Sgd) ROBERT W. MITCHELL, C.M.G. Govt. Emign. Agent for Br. Guiana. The Secretary Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society. Note on Coffee Growing in Southern India. Coffee Growing in India has proved even more successful than tea 216 TIMEHRI. and owes its prosperity in certain districts to thorough tillage of the soil before planting, and subsequent heavy manuring when the first flowers appear, and continued yearly aeration of the land by trenching. Even after the trees are in full bearing, this deep tillage is continued, and trenches over a foot in depth, are dug between each row of coffee trees, and the earth thrown up close to the plants. One would imagine that deep tillage of the kind in a comparatively dry climate, would injure the young roots and retard the plants, if it did not destroy their fruitfulness entirely, but this is not the case. On the contrary, the trees seem to resist the periodical drought of two or three months duration much better than under the old system of dense shade and surface cultivation. Under the more modern system of culture, which ensures a thorough aeration of the soil, a crop of 23 cwts. to the acre may be expected on ordinary soils in 2} years, if not under shade, The artificial manure in use, is a compost of nitrate of soda and oil seed refuse, applied at the rate of about a ton to the acre so soon as the coffee begins to bear. The coffee is sown in the nurseries originally, and each plant set out afterwards in a small basket of highly manured soil, when about 9 inches, The rainfall in the districts referred to, is about 60 inches annually, fairly distributed, although continuous dry weather for two or three months annually is experienced, The elevation of the land is from three to four thousand feet, The plants are set out at distances ranging from six to eight feet, and even then under this system of high cultivation, the bushes frequently touch. The height is kept down by pruning to about five feet. Labour is cheap, ranging from four pence for men to three pence for women. Shade trees are used as a protection from hail rather than as a sun shelter. On soils’ less highly cultivated, shade trees, as such, are essential. Well worked land highly manured and trenched yearly between the rows of trees, will yield as much as half a ton of coffee to the acre, when in full bearing. The profit on such returns is enormous at present prices, say 9§ shillings per cwt., yielding about £3,000 net from a hundred acres in full bearing. These splendid results are due mainly to perfe& aeration of the soil, and the liberal use of fertilizers, for in much richer soils, where the old system of cultivation still obtains, not only is the yield much less, but the bushes usually suffer from blight, which is not the case where the land is highly cultivated, REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 217 To clear off moderate heavy forest and cultivate in the manner in- _ dicated, costs about a hundred rupees an acre for the first two years, In the 3rd year, when the coffee commences to bear, and heavy manur- ing and trenching take place, the expenses rise to Rs, 120/ per acre, but against this may be set the value of a crop of about 24 cwts. to the acre, nearly double that of the expenditure. After three years the expenses are the same, but the return per acre is nearly doubled, being 4 cwts. In the 4th the trees produce about 7 cwts. and about 10 cwts. in the 5th and following years. (Sg). ROBERT W. MITCHELL, C,M.G. Minute by Mr, G. S. fenman. With regard to Mr. Mitchell’s communication:—In forming an opinion as to the adoption of any particular system of cultivation, much depends naturally on the altitude, topography, chemical and physical charaéter of the land, the amount and distribution through the year of rainfall, the adaption of the crop or crops to these conditions and cir- cumstances, and of the manures employed (in kinds and quantities) to both. The system of cultivation and manuring, if applied in this colony as it is described in Mr. Mitchell’s communication, would be alike ruinous to crops and cultivations. However, in regard to the important nature of the statement in the second paragraph of Mr. Mitchell’s covering letter, I would respectfully suggest that both letter and note be com- municated to the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society, who will no doubt discuss, and thus, through the press, widely disseminate their contents. (Sgd.) G. S. JENMAN. 7th April, 1896. Mr. J. A. Coelho read the following paper on “ India- Rubber colleétion at Para.”* A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Coelho, and the discussion of his paper left over until the next meeting. Mr. Jacob Conrad asked that a letter on this subje@, read some time ago before the Society, be laid upon the table when the matter came up. * See Page 87. EE 218 TIMEHRI. The thanks of the Society were accorded to the Agent- General of Natal fora copy of the Handbook of Natal, and to others for the following donations to the Museum ;— Collection of Pottery, and other Ancient Pln, Chateau Margot ...Hon. E. C. Luard, Indian remains Two Dervish’s War | Taken from men kill’d P. Wood : Dresses... in Battle, in Soa se th Rare Shell ... ...Barbados... ...Miss M. Harrison. Rare Bulimus ...Demerara. ... ..G. S. Jenman, peas specimens counterfeit and 14 oy lisnestor Bane coins sah th), tas ox Abnormal egg ... Georgetown ... ...Jacob Conrad. Prize Mug. ... ...Crystal Palace «Felix Smith. Very large Toad .. Barima ba ...A. A, Watson, 8 Rare Coins 414 .-J. W. Dorman. ie aera Moruca aes J. L, Theobald, Sphinx Moth ... Georgetown ... ...Eugene Stuart, Rare Tree Boa ... Berbice ae ...J..E. Hewick. Skin of Savannah Deer, ...Hon, Cavendish Boyle. Brain Stones of Bashaw.Amacura ... . J. Graham. 8 Bricks ae ...Pottery works, Dem, R.Alex, Shanks. Tree Frog ... ' ..,.Wakenaam ... ...Dr, Delamere. Silver Spider ...Georgetown ... ...N. G, Hohenkerk, d ts, fos- , he ia Bias a ks } Miscellaneous, ...Mrs, R. Havers. sils and slides Tonka Beans in Shell... ws John Junor. 2 Very rare old Coins,..Spanish.American — ...F. I. Seard. A Gri South . hia pe orae } Diamond... ...G. E, Anderson, American Weasel Rare Alligator ...Tapacooma Lake __ ...C, Cheong. Mr. A. J. Patterson, a copy of U. S. Correspondence on the Boundary Question. Dr. E, Pinaud and Senor F. P, de Suarez, copies of Limites de Guayana. , The meeting then terminated. REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 219 Meeting held Fune r1th.—Capt. A. Duncan, Dire€tor, in the chair, Members present 14. Eleétions—Member: Hon. H. A. Bovell, LL.B., Q.C. Associates: Messrs. H. B. Gainfort and W. E. Bellamy. Captain A. Duncan brought forward his motion for an expression of opinion as to the desirability of establishing a branch of the Navy League in this colony. He said he had received a letter from the Secretary of the League, asking him as Mayor of Georgetown, to endeavour to es- tablish such abranch. The obje¢t,of the League was to in- fluence public opinion on the matter of the Naval Defence of the British Empire, and to urge Britons everywhere to united aétion in favour of keeping the Navy in a con- stant state of efficiency, recognizing the faét that great ships cannot be built on an emergency. The existence of the Empire depended upon the command of the sea, and this was not only a matter of importance to the Mother Country but to the Colonies as well. The Markets for their produce were across the seas, and from other countries came the greater portion of their food supply. He thought that, both from the national standpoint as well as for local reasons, the Navy League should be sup- ported, and he hoped that Members would give their as- sistance. In reply to the Hon. N. D. Davis, the Chairman said that the proposed branch would not be conneéted with the Society. He did not think they were stretching the by-laws of the Society by considering the matter. If they thought it desirable to form a branch of the Navy League a provisional Committee might be appointed to EE 2 220 TIMEHRI. carry their wishes into effe€t. He then formally read his motion. This having been seconded by the Hon. A, R. Gilzean, Mr. Jacob Conrad objeéted, on the ground that the matter was political, and therefore stri€tly precluded from discussion under the Society’s Ordinance. Mr. Atneas D. Mackay and Mr. Hargreaves protested against such a matter being considered in that light. Mr. Quelch said that the defence of the Empire could hardly be political, as it really had nothing to do with forms of Government. The Hon. N. D. Davis said he was sorry that the question of politics had arisen. The matter was cer- tainly one which affeéted Agricultural and Commercial interests, as it did the whole community. He fully sup- ported the motion, and was in favour of differences being made between British and Foreign vessels ; the taxation of the latter to be applied to national defence. The Hon. A. R. Gilzean having spoken in favour of the motion, it was put tothe vote and carried, Mr. Conrad alone dissenting, and requesting that his protest be recorded on the Minutes on the ground that it was against the constitution of the Society, The Chairman then moved that a provisional Committee be appointed, with power to add to their number, for the purpose of establishing a branch of the Navy League in this colony. This having also been seconded by the Hon. Mr. Gilzean it was carried. The following gentlemen were then nominated on the Provisional Committee ;— REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 221 Hons. E. C. Luard, A. R. Gilzean, W. A. Wolseley, A. Weber and B. Howell Jones, Messrs. S. G. T. Bourke, R. T, Wright, Geo. Garnett, Luke M. Hill, Jacob Conrad and Capt. A. Duncan. The Assistant Secretary read an advertisement of a Prize Essay on Tobacco cultivation and curing for which $50 was offered. According to the advertisement the Society was to appoint two Judges, on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. L. M. Hill, Mr. G.S. Jenman was chosen, and on that of the Hon. A. R. Gilzean seconded by Mr. Jacob Conrad, Mr. Louis Paddenburg. In the matter of Mr. Coelho’s paper on India Rubber colleétion, the Assistant Secretary read a letter from Mr. J. A. Robinson, which had been brought before the Society at a General Meeting he!d September 13th, 1883. this being done at the request of Mr. Jacob Conrad. The following donations were reported, for which the thanks of the Society were accorded :— To the Library :— Mr. F. V. McConnell—Boundary Question Blue Book. Gen. F.H. G Gorsira—Venezuelan Yellow Book, 1896, and Ven. Hand-Book, 1893. To the Museum :— 32 Enlarged Photographs—ethnological por- ) Taken and given by F. traits of Makushi Indians, e:c. ... V. McConnell. 17 Pieces, Rare Pottery, stone bowls, celts and dippers, from aback of Skeldon 1 Specimen ‘tiger’s eye’,.Mineral—S. Africa ...Mrs. Barratt. } F. V. McConnell, 1 Unique quartz celt ...Conawarook Creek... James Leacock, Tobacco & native rice... Vryheid’s Lust .--John Junor 6 Surinam toads weUEINAM psn, ---Dr, Odesnun, Nest of swallow ... Leguan aie } Oe ae Straker. 1 Large beetle «.Rupununi .»J- Bentley, 222 TIMEHRI. Abnormal egg of fowl... 1. Molyneaux. Alli ; a otal 5a noe Botanic Garden }a. S. Jenman. 2 Moths tee ...Georgetown ... .A, Lennox. 21 Coins & 2 Notes, various issues } } F. H. C. Gorsira. 1 Sawyer Beetle »»Canal No. 1... «EF. Harvey. 1 Cloth ad ves Uitviugtys: oe ..R. H. Black. 1 Moth ese ...Georgetown ... ... Baptista. 1 Cocoanut root borer... 3 dae A. Gill. 1 Longicorn Beetle ...Bartica ve ... Neil Menzies. A special vote was accorded to Mr. F. V. McConnell for his valuable presents to the Museum. The meeting then terminated. . ERRATA. On page 69, bottom line, for right bank read /eft bank. » » 94, line 6 from top, 7860 should be 7780, v4 “a Cre lS aie head) WR Gs Al a { ey : Other Times, other Manners. By the Editor. YN looking through a file of old local papers we come. upon interesting and amusing items, ey which throw side lights upou the manners and eeu of the early part of this century, and go to shew what enormous strides have been made in less than a hundred years.. Besides the great social revolution which resulted from the total abolition of slavery, there have been other changes, not perhaps so radical, but still noteworthy, some of which can be easily understood from the following extracts, Taking up first the Essequebo and Demerary Gazette of the 16th of June 1804, we are struck by its general meanness as compared with a newspaper of to-day. About an inch larger each way than an ordinary foolscap sheet, it is printed on green tinted paper and contains nothing whatever in the shape of news. There are Government Publications, Vendue Notices, and General Advertise- ments, mostly duplicated in Dutch and English, and finally a letter which may or may not have been paid for. This last is curious enough for reproduétion. It follows upon an advertisement of R. B. DALY, who gives notice that he is “ receiving daily considerable damages by Mules, Horses and other Cattle on the Plantation Flushing, whose Proprietors are quite unknown to him, informs the Owners to send for them without delay, as he finds himself under the disagreeable necessity for the future to Order to Shoot the said Mules, Horses and other, Cattle d See uae “JIVD 224 TIMEHRI. as soon as they shall be found on said Plantation.” The notice is published in the two languages, the name Flushing being used in the English and Vlissengen in the Dutch. The letter is intended as a reply, and runs as follows :— ‘© Pray Sir be not so quick to fire your Musket after a Jackass, before taking a proper aim at the objeét of your Revenge; do Sir, do not give Orders to Shoo¢ in- offensive Annimals, who are entirely doubtful of your Orders on Plantation Viissengen. If you or the Man miss the Obje& which yon intend to kill for Eating your Grass in the Meadows, pour passé le temps, you may hit a Mulatto, a Mustee, a Costee, &c., what a misfortune will it then be if any one should lose his life, or return home with a broken leg, because a Mule or other Cattle have been missed by your Gunner :—I pray Sir to moderate your Resolution, and I advise you to put the Mule or Horse in the Stocks, or to keep a Watchman on your Bridge to drive them away with a Horse-whip, or any other inoffensive Weapon. - THE PUBLIC. N.B.—The Laws of this Country will allow a Hog to be killed, especially when he pays a Visit in a Gentle- man’s Parlour, but no other Working Domestic Animal.” In the same paper M. BARKER (was this a relation of the M. J. BARKER who wrote for Bentley’s Miscellany under the xom-de-plume ot ‘ The Old Sailor” ?) informs his Friends and the Public in general not to give any Credit to BENJAMIN JACOBS on his account, on which Mr. JACOBS makes known “that from the frequent applications made by me in several Stores in Town (at his request), his Credit was not good,” several store- OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 325 keepers as well as himself having been obliged to sue him for their accounts. Advertisements calling on debtors to pay their accounts were very common, and tenders were often asked for debts as per list. But, now and again there was also something like what we find in the Guiana Chronicle of Decr. toth 1817, headed Debts of Honour for sale at fifty per cent discount of H. M. BuNBury, Esquire.” Mr. BUNBURY lost 25 Joes on one bet at the dinner table of the Hon. CHAS. BEAN, and 8 Joes at the Whist Club, to SAMUEL PHIPPEN, who thus concludes his advertise- ment :-— *‘ All the above Debts having been repeatedly de- manded of Mr. H. M. B, since that period, and finally, in this last week, on the eve of the Subscriber’s departure for Europe; when Mr. H. M. B. replied, that he would not pay them, and that the Subscriber was at liberty to do what he pleased with them. He therefore takes this method of publicly advertising them; altho’ they may not produce a cash payment, they may be made a set-off against any debt due that Gentleman of the like nature.” From a letter in the Guzana Chronicle of April 23rd, 1819, we see the sort of thing that went on when men were ready to quarrel and fight duels on slight provo- cation. Mr. M. CAMPBELL stated that Mr. ANDREW MILLS of the Vendue Office called and handed him a letter, in which ROBERT PHIPPS demanded a categorical answer as to whether in a certain letter to the Chronzcle, he alluded to him—*“ yes or no.” Mr. CAMPBELL having replied in the affirmative, a second letter was handed him, and which read as follows :— * Mr. CAMPBELL,—You are too great a scoundrel and FF 2 226 TIMEHRI. a blackguard to merit the honor of gentlemanly treat- ment; but this shall not save you from the punishment you so justly deserve, and therefore you may prepare yourself for the consequences of your conduét.—ROBERT PHIPPS. What followed may be understood from Mr. CAMP- BELL’S description :— “| shall not ask what the feelings of any of your readers would be in receiving so gross an insult, through the hands too of a man he had known and respeéted for many years. Thought passes not the human mind sooner than my decision was made. I saw Mr. MILLS identi- fying himself with his principal, and becoming a party to one of the most unprecedented outrages which one man can offer to another in society, I asked Mr. M. if he was really serious in lending himself to an insult so infamous, and so far removed from the assumed partici- pation of an honourable mind? He answered “ yes,” and being desired to apologize and carry back the offen- sive paper to him who sent it, he refused—referring me to his address, which however I thought availed little, since seeing Mr, MILLS a party to the paper, whereby his principal meant to skulk from honourable reparation. The moment was critical! Self-duty required that the insult should be resented. Had he been a Goliah ora giant—had instant annihilation been the consequences— I would have had a blow at his body! I— —accordingly— he returned it—-an immediate set-to followed—and we were parted. + * * * * ‘In resenting an insult, which the lowest of mankind could scarcely brook, I allow myself to think I did no more than my duty, He who avails himself of'a dis- OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 227 honourable subterfuge, and shrouds his offences under cover of scurrility, abuse and bodily strength, is, in my opinion, a base shuffling poltroon and coward, and such | consider Mr. ROBERT PHipps! Could any words stronger than contempt occur to my mind, I should not hesitate to apply it to his ruffian threat.” It any one was aspersed or scandalised in any way he seems to have rushed into print: at once. Here is an example from the Royal Gazette of June 24th, 1819 :— ** Whereas there are people in Demerary who report that I have advertised that I was robbed, with a view to cheat my creditors. The Undersigned therefore informs them that he wishes them no other harm than that they may pay their debts before I have mine.—J. THEVIN,” The language used in the papers was particularly strong, but the Guzana Chronicle went far beyond the Gazette. A correspondent in the latter on the 22nd of August, 1822, thus speaks of this venomous publication. ** The subscribers to the justly called * Obnoxious” Chronicle were kept waiting last night to'nearly eight o'clock for their papers—and for the sake only of having time to insert three of the most scurrilous and abominable letters which ever stamped infamy on a public journal. In the face too of an editorial article developing the pernicious consequences of the licentiousness of’ the press in another part of the world. Waiting with pain- ful anxiety as to how ‘long the Public Prosecutor will suffer such things to be, I am, &c.—Q. C.” This is how the Chronicle spoke of the Gazette on the 30th of the same month :— “The once white robed innocence (!) of ‘the Roya/ Gazette, ‘ wasting its sweetness on: the ‘desert ‘air, and 228 TIMEHRI. blooming in humble obscurity ‘alike unknowing and unknown,’ has faded before the mercenary passions of a pander, and now presents to view a loathsome mass of disease, vice, and infamy: Like an accommodating woman of the town, it is at the service of every swag- gerer who can look high and talk high. It seems quite resolved to outrage every feeling of decorum, Its pro- faneness, blasphemy, poor vituperation, and mean abuse are beginning to surpass even its dull ignorance and general stupidity.” The following is a curious produétion from the Gazette of Sept. roth, 1822, which explains itself :-— ‘* Sir—Having perused with equal pity and regret a certain deistical article in the Guzana Chronicle relative to Swedenborg and the Fanatics, from the Quarterly Review, | therefore as a person aéting under Sovereign Protection, require that you immediately publish the following counter Review of the writings of the illustrious teacher of wisdom.—I am, &c.—HENRY WM. WELLS, Teacher and Leéturer of the Doétrines of the New Jerusalem Church, a faithful and loyal subjeét of His Britannic Majesty and Servant of the Lord in South America.” No wonder that the editor told him that his notes in future must be less zmperzous if he wished them to meet with attention. In the Gazette of September roth following, a corres- pondent calls attention to an advertisement in the rival paper charging a person with cruelty to Slaves, and the refusal of the paper to publish the reply and denial, asking if this was a free press, under no sinister influence or control? The writer of the reply said he had sent it OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 229 twice to the Chronicle but it had been refused under pretence that it was too late, or that there was no room. It was published as an advertisement in the Gazette, and ran as follows :— TO THE PUBLIC. Having observed an Advertisement in the Guiana Chronicle of the 11th instant, and subsequent papers, signed ANDREW COCHRANE JOHNSTONE, and although from the well-known charaé€ter of the writer, I doubt not but a candid and discerning Public is well aware what credit is to be placed on his allegations; yet, lest silence on the subjeét might be construed into an acknowledge- ment of its truth, I have deemed it necessary to contra- di€& an assertion contained in that Paper. ANDREW COCHRANE JOHNSTONE, having found himself foiled (no doubt with great mortification to his feelings) in every attempt he has hitherto made to vent his spleen and malice upon me, has at last been put to the shift of having recourse to an advertisement in a public paper, charging me with having lately a€ted towards the Negroes of this Estate in a most cruel and unjust manner. In defence of my own charaéter and reputation, also the duty 1 owe to the profession | follow, 1 beg leave now solemnly to assure the Public that COCHRANE JOHNSTONE’S asser- tion of me is palpably FALSE, and unfounded ; and Ihave no doubt but the Sequestrators appointed by the Honour- able Court will do me the justice to have the matter most stri€tly investigated ; at the same time it is my intention to institute an Aétion against the said ANDREW COCH- RANE JOHNSTONE to prove the Charges laid against me. P. H, BAYNEs, Bel Air, 16th Sept., 1822. 230. TIMEHRI. Other advertisments from both parties were inserted in the two papers, and even the Chronicle printed Mr. BAYNES' refutation, as a correspondent stated, on account of the matter having been taken up by the Gazette. At this time the two papers were abusing each other through their correspondence columns until the disputes occupy quite large portions of the papers. The following advertisement of a would-be estate’s Manager from the Gazette of Novr. 7th, 1822, is at least curious :— WANTED A GOOD MANAGEMENT. The Subscriber unfortunately making a bad purchase © at an unfavourable time during the war, and through other means, has lost all he was worth, and has now to begin the world after 39 years industry and hard labour in this Colony; but as it pleaseth the Almighty to spare him his health and strength he is still desirous of trying to labour for the support of himself and family, and to give his three little children in America a good edu- cation—therefore he begs leave to take this method of soliciting the particular favour of all his friends to assist in procuring him a comfortable management ona sugar, or a coffee and sugar plantation, or any othercreditable situa- tion, and he assures them who do him the honour to recom- mend him, and the gentleman whosoever may think fit to employ him, that his exertion shall not be wanting towards their interest.—RICHARD HARDING, The national patron saint’s days were kept up with a jollity now quite unknown. The Gazette of Decr. 3rd, 1822, said that “The Anniversary of St. Andrew was duly commemo- rated on Saturday last. There was a Party in almost OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. ont every section of the town—according to a person who no doubt did tt justice in every respect.” On the 7th a long serio-comic letter was published which contains the following :— “1, WILLIAM WASTLE, junior, declare that, on the anniversary of the St. Andrew’s Society, I drank nothing except three bottles of Champagne, a magnum bonum of Chateau Margo, and a fappit hen of Glenlivet :—that previously I laid in a foundation of round and two pounds of haggish, bag included :—that I sat no longer than to the very early hour to which our excellent Presi- dent limited us, in honour of the known temperance of our country on such occasions—and I then went soberly and quietly to roost. I further certify that our Vice- President did creditably second the Chair, and that the Stewards emulated their Chiefs in doing heartfelt justice to the objeéts that united our Society—charity and good- Fellowship. That our guests appeared happy, and that we did our utmost to make them so. That the Muses staid with us the entire night, and that CICERO himself could not have displayed greater fervency and sincerity than was exhibited by the speakers who gratified us on this national and social occasion. That when our appe- tites got appeased, our tastes got querulous, and that we admired the beef while we condemned the mutton, cam- plimented the Guinea birds at the expense of the giblet pie, sneezed at the Madeira and embraced the Cham- pagne, abused the malt and got rapturously in love with Hoffman. And that which pleased us most was the hap- piness which beamed from one to the other, a hearty participation in the festivities of the day—a desire to enjoy ourselves, and sincere mental expressions that we GG 232 TIMEHRI, might long meet and participate in the hilarity of our respective Anniversaries. That St. GEORGE, St, PAT- RICK, St. DAVID and St. ANDREW are equal to the world—in love, in war, and in festivity,” ‘St. George’s Day, April 23rd, 1823, seems to have been kept with more enthusiasm than usual, possibly because it was the King’s Birthday as well. Entertainments were held in every part of the town. At mid-day the Soldiers and Militia were assembled to celebrate the day with a grand feu de jote and cheers, There was a dinner by the Governor at Camp House, a Subscription Ball at Mrs. DOLLY THOMAS’S in Cumingsburg, a dinner at Miss REBECCA RITCHIE’S, a Subscription Ball at the Royal Hotel, Vlissengen, and several other parties in Stabroek, Werk-en-Rust and Charlestown. But, ¢he event of the day was a Ball and Supper at Miss OSTRE- HAN’S Assembly Rooms, given by the ‘Sons of St. George.” The Gazette said :— “The Sons indeed who gave it did ample honour to their filial affeétion and their glorious Patron’s deserts ; as well as proved, that though children of the “ 7hrzce Renowned Saint George,’ they highly respeét and esteem those of every other Saint. Inshort, from the admirable mixture of British, Irish, Scotch, Welsh, and other painted devices pendant from the ceiling, it was evident the Rose, in compliment to her sister flowers (the Shamrook, the Thistle and the Leek) had so completely eradicated the ¢horz of national partiality, that on the intermingling of leaves the pleasure was totally unat- tended with pain. * * * ** * “Upon the whole, were we inclined to be romantic, OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 233 we should represent it as some eastern place of enchant- ment! For, as we entered, such was the flood of diversified rays, we thought the pillars of the fabric had been of glass, prismatically formed! We saw the votaries of Bacchus making pantomimic transits from Madeira to Oporto, from Champania to WHITBREAD’S Brewhouse !—while their attendants were playing at hide- and-seek in a forest of bottles; letting off signals of where abouts, here with a cracker of ginger-beer, there with a rocket of spruce! In one corner we saw CUPID, under the direction of his mother, discharging his mischievous darts; in another, the somewhat more mortal HOYLE superintending and dire&ting a rubber of Whist. Finally, we saw aérial forms move in celestial drapery ; and as, in the “ tripping on the light fantastic toe,” the daughters of the torrid met and left the sons of the temperate zone, the total effect was such—+that we staid longer than we intended.” There was a great deal of hard drinking in the colony, and when in 1834 temperance societies were advocated in the Chronicle, two correspondents in the Gazette of January 2nd, wrote as follows :— ‘* Sir,—I am at this moment one of FOUR Englishmen sitting over a comfortable glass of old O€étober, at the hospitable residence of one of the party, and, strange to say, our united time in this supposed unhealthy climate amounts to one hundred and forty one years! One of us has never been to Europe since his first arrival, and two of us actually walked for pleasure eight miles before breakfast about a month ago, without feeling the least fatigue ; and even now I engage that at a good piece of roast beef, a plum pudding, and a tankard of real: GG2 234 TIMEHRI. “Nappy,” we shall match any other four men in British Guiana, not excepting old Temperance of the Chronicle. Tam, &c.,” OLD STINGO. “‘ Sir,—I am at this moment oxe of six about to sit down to a comfortable breakfast at the hospitable resi- dence of the owner of Church Cottage, and strange to Say, our united time in this country amounts to one hun- dred and seventy cight years. The company are not Scotchmen, but are from different parts of the world— say one Englishman, one /rishman, one Scotchman, one Dutchman, one Laplander, anda Son of Saint Quaco. ‘‘ Those six veterans (tough as the British oak) beg to challenge ¢he six Scotchmen to a drinking match either in champagne, brandy, wine, strong ale, or in their own favourite drink, Peet Reek punch ; and JOHN BULL in particular will endeavour to out-do any one of them in eating plum pudding and roast beef, I am, &c., NEW TEMPERANCE. Dr. BONYUN, in 1848, made out some tables of mor- tality of business and professional men, shewing that in the four previous years, one-third of the deaths had been caused by intemperance, beside which a large proportion of the remainder were no doubt accelerated by excessive drinking. Freemasons also had their dinners, as may be seen from the following in the Gazette of June 26th, 1819 :— “The Grand Festival of St. JOHN the Baptist was celebrated here on Thursday evening in a manner stri€tly accordant with the designation of the Lodge “ UNION,” indeed with the compass in one hand and sguare in the other, arranged everything it is said, with the skill of a Master ; and HOSPITALITY suggesting the introduétion OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 235 of ‘a friend,’ but few went single, and the visitors and visited did mutual honour. When the cloth was re- moved and the bumpered glasses sparkled on the board, MASONRY gave to PATRIOTISM and LOYALTY, JOKE, SENTIMENT and SONG the /raterna/ grip; and passing the signs of CONVIVIALITY and ENJOYMENT they pro- gressed on, till morning whispered “/n the East there ts Light!” and added the Craft’s well-known conclu- sion of Szlence and Peace. They then departed. In short, though we have not been furnished with the details, it appears that few of such Festivals have been better celebrated; the company more respeét- able ; or more harmony and gratification witnessed and enjoyed.” The description of the Demerary Exchange as it was started in 1819, reminds us somewhat of the Museum Buildings of to-day. The building seleéted was the then late Union Coffee House, and this is how it was laid out -— “On the ground floor is to be the Coffee Room; but available on ball-nights, by the removal of partitions, &c., as a cool and convenient supper room. On ascend- ing the first stair-case and crossing the gallery to the jeft, you enter the Public Room of this Lloya’s tn epi- tome ;—-which is to be fitted up with the customary ac- commodation of such places ; including the book for the insertion of arrivals and departures, of the prices of freight and produce, and of articles of commercial news, To the right on this floor, and leading to the Room for the Captains of Vessels, Supercargoes and others most immediately conne€ted—is a smaller apartment, intended for the Post Office. The large room over the Public one 236 ~~ ‘TIMEHRI. is to be the Library; and in the exclusive occupancy of the subscribers ; the concern being to be disposed of in shares, we believe upon the principle of Tontines in general. This room is fitted up in a very superior stile of neatness and taste; and is to be furnished, on opening, with English, Scotch, Irish, French, Dutch, German, American,and West Indian papers, ina very considerable variety. To which will be added all the Reviews, Magazines, Prices Currents, &c., usual and applicable to such a scheme. The last we shall mention and as crowning all—both in expensive decoration and superiority of size—is the Ball or Assem- bly Room ; with a gallery convertible to an Orchestra. This room will also be dedicated to Public Meetings, National and Masonic Festivities, Convivial Parties, Concerts and Exhibitions, as they may occasionally offer and occur. The building of Billiard rooms in the yard is also contemplated ; as well as the very great accom- modation of repeating the signals at the Fort. Here then, under one roof, the whole concerns of the colony, either of business or pleasure, may be carried on with the greatest convenience. The planter may dispose of his produce ; the merchant, his imports ; and the shipping interest form its engagements, both of freight and passage. Here all tenders may be lodged; all letter-bags placed ; and all notices given. The appetite, the curiosity, and each peculiar inclination, gratified ina moment. Here, in short, without collision or jealousy, fear or favour, a public life may be led as privately as may be de- sired; and a private one maintained, even in the very centre of publicity—-We wish it every possible suc- cess.” In dry weather water often became scarce, The OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 237 following from the Gazette of March 17th, 1825, will show what was sometimes done in such cases :— “ Notice is hereby given that another boat with FRESH WATER for the supply of the Poor (gratis) is expected to arrive in the course of Sunday next—that boat will remain for four hours at each of the undermentioned stellings, viz., the Charlestown Stelling, Robbs-Stelling and Cumingsburg-Stelling, adjoining the Premises of WALTER URQUHART, Esq. ‘€ Tickets will be issued between this date and Raihtdag on application to any of the members of the Board of Police.” Negro festivities were kept up much as they are to-day. The Guiana Chronicle of April 5th, 1824, gives the following copy of an invitation, on which it discourses about the condition of the slave :— “Miss DIANA’S compliments to Miss MIMBA ROBIN- SON, and requests the favour of her company, together with the Ladies and Gentlemen of her acquaintances, to a dance on Sunday evening, the 18th April. Terms 73 per couple.” ‘To us who are acquainted with the country, there is nothing extraordinary in the affair—the refinement in the style of the invitation may, it is true, be thought a little above the ordinary usage in such cases; but this may be considered as the consequence of that superior polish which the vicinity of a capital never fails to com- municate. But what would be the astonishment of an honest, plain-dealing, well-meaning Englishman, whose head (by the reiteration of falsehoods and exag- gerations) had been stuffed with prejudices about. West Indian cruelty, oppression, &c., &c., &c., when he was 238 TIMEHRI. informed that the writer, Miss DIANA, and the invited Miss MIMBA, with all the ladies and gentlemen of her acquaintanee, who are bidden to this festive meeting by a card giving five weeks’ notice, belong to that class of human beings who are described to his deluded country- men as degraded to the level of the beasts of the field, over-toiled, ill clothed, half starved, badly lodged, kept in a state of constant fear and brutal ignorance—and finally subjeét to every kind of suffering, oppression, contumely and pollution which wanton cruelty, unre- strained caprice, or unbridled lust can suggest. Yet such is truly the case—the parties in this instance were field negroes, those who aétually hoe the ground, cut the canes, make sugar, and pick and clean coffee, and who are supposed by many worthy people in the Island of Great Britain to be harnessed in couples and driven with a whip, as they do horses in the waggons in Yorkshire.” Returning to the subjeét on the 7th of May following, the editor said that the balls, suppers and dinners were enjoyed by the Negroes with all that wild and somewhat unearthly glee which denoted the land from which they came. The well-known tendency of the negro to imitate his master is beautifully shewn by the following report of “an affair of honour’ in Berbice, in the Chronicle of May 31st, 1824. The matter came to the notice of the Magis- trate, ‘‘ who forthwith commanded the presence of JACOB BENSOR, Esq., one of the parties concerned. Upon this gentleman being examined and cross-questionen ky the legal advisers of the Chief Magistrates as to the existence of any difference between himself and a Mr. JAMES ROSE, which was likely to lead to unpleasant results, he ten- OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 239 dered for perusal, the following challenge. which he stated he had received that very morning from the atoresaid Mr. JAMES ROSE, or JAMES ROSE, ESQ :— To JACOR BENSER, Berbice, 1824. Dare Sir;—If you is a man to walk down to the back dam to-night at seven o'clock or to-morrow at eleven o’clock at the Colony town, then i will speak with you then with my hands. JAMES ROSE, 20 May, 1824. “ Mr. BENSOR, we understand, then made a forcible appeal to the passions of ‘his learned auditors, contend- ing that no man of his rank in Jife could tamely ‘put up with an insult, or remain inaétive—even though his con- tempt for his antagonist was astonishingly great—after the receipt of such a taunting defiance as was contained in Mr. ‘ROSE’S epistle. He asserted that his honor was dearer‘to him than his life, and that the one'should not ‘be sacrificed, but with the sacrifice of the other.” BENSOR was ‘bound over to keep the peace. The “Colony town” was the Berbice Winkel Department, where both ‘parties were employed, ze., ‘they were Colony slaves. The advertisements of Runaways were often very curious. Of one man it was said that he played a good fiddle, and in a Barbados paper a mulatto boy named TOM was said to have had ‘‘his wool cut in the /ashion- able cockatoo stile,” whatever that might mean. The negro boy NEPTUNE “ makes a bold pert reply—he is a little bow-legged, and was on his exit lame on his left foot. The Negro man ERNEST “is chiefly harboured by HH 240 TIMEHRI. his mother, a little cunning old woman of the Indian breed.” Here is a curiosity in advertising, from the Chronicle of August 30th, 1824, which obviously was never intended tobe serious :— TO BE SOLD BY PRIVATE CONTRACT. The woman BETSyY-ANN, a good washer of linen and domestic. Her morals, I lament to say, are not so pure as I would wish, but should any of the Saints who may be employed secretly in this colony, under their patrons WILBERFORCE or BUXTON, sincerely wish, or think by their hypocritical cant, they can convert or improve her, and though I doubt the pra€ticability, as well as most of what that class of men profess, yet I will willingly, in order to put an end to contention, give twenty-five per cent off the original cost of said Woman, to promote or better her state, if that’s their scheme; and I make no doubt many real proprietors of property in the West Indies will do the same. And, until I have WILBER- FORCE, BUXTON, BROUGHAM, CROPPER, Sir JAS. MCIN- TOSH, with all those who compose the mighty phalanx, against us, come forward, and are ready to contribute twenty-five per cent of all their property to complete their pretended views, I shall, in my humble opinion, hold them as apostates in their professions towards God and Man. Wo. HEDGEs. goth August, 1824. We sometimes read in novels of poor women making personal application to their Sovereign for redress of grievances ; here is an instance in conne€tion with Deme- rara which has quite an old-time flavour. Down to 1824, free coloured women had to pay head-taxes, but men OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 24i were exempted on the ground of their performing certain public duties. Mrs. DOROTHY or Do.Ly THOMAS; wanted to get these taken off and she ‘ went to London to see the King,” her mission being such a success that the coloured ladies presented her with a testimonial and the following address :— Georgetown, gth O€tober, 1824. ““ Madam,—A few Coloured Ladies of Georgetown, desirous of presenting you with a pledge of their respe@ and esteem, and to express the high sense they entertain of your services, rendered them in removing an oppres- sive Tax,—request your acceptance of a Silver Cup and Waiter, value Fifty Guineas, as a lasting testimony of their gratitude for the eminent services rendered by you on that occasion. We feel great personal satisfaétion in being charged with this communication of the sentiments of the Coloured Ladies and request to add our own sin- cere wishes for your future welfare and happiness. We have the honour, &c., Mary OsTREHAN, E. A. Ross, CHRISTIAN BLACKMAN, E. RICHARDS, MARY BRETT, REBECCA RITCHIE, SARAH ANN DELPH, DOROTHY E. COXALL.” To which Mrs. 'HOMAS replied :— “ Ladies,—The kind sentiments in which you have expressed the wishes of the Coloured Ladies of George- town, in your communication of this date, in relation to my humble exertions in obtaining the repeal of the Tax of Ten Guilders, levied annually on Free Women of Colour—are most gratifying to me, and which I shall always remember with great satisfaétion. ** ] accept with much pleasure the token offered me of their grateful feelings—though such a memorial were HH 2 242 TIMEHRI. unnecessary for those friends, in. whose society I have spent the greater and most agreeable part of my life. “ With most sincere wishes for your health and happi- ness, colleétively and individually, 1 beg leave to subscribe myself, &c. DOROTHY THOMAS. Obituary notices were sometimes very full, especially if the deceased was a man of importance in the com- munity. The following from the account of the funeral of Lieut.-Col. J. T. VAN WELL, who died on the roth of February, 1825, will perhaps be interesting :— ‘“We have been given to understand that the vener- able deceased first came to this colony about the year 1794, as Captain in a detachment of Dutch Troops in the service of the then STADTHOLDER. He was however found by the British, when they came and took the colony under their prote€tion in 1796, with the rank of Major, and in the Command of, the Gatrison—he having in the meantime by his loyalty and firmness, saved the colony from. Revolution, and heroically maintained Orange boven. On, as we said before, the British taking the colony under their protection, we are further informed the Dutch troops were nevertheless still in service, under the appellation of the “ Loyal Orange Battalion,” and as Major-Commandant of which VAN WELL continued, till 1802, when it was finally disbanded. Subsequently, for a short time, he aéted as Adjutant-General of the Militia, and was afterwards placed on our late Governor, Major- General MurrRaAy’s Colonial Staff as Aide-de-Camp- with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. He was likewise jor a time, Inspeétor-General of Georgetown—and when his advanced age diétated an honourable re¢rea¢ from OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 243 public life, the Court of Policy, much to ¢hezr honour, voted him a pension of 5,000 guilders. He died in the qand year of his age,” The following short notice of an old worthy shews the style of some of these :— “ Died on Plantation Onderneeming, Canal No. 1, on Friday last, (June roth 1825), in the 46th. year of his age, C. G. STORM VAN’S GRAVESANDE, Esq. _ By. whose death this colony has lost a truly valuable man, whose merits perhaps. were not sufficiently appreciated. Unassuming and modest even to excess—benevolent and kind to his dependents, almost to a fault—disinterested and. firm in his friendship—always fair and stri€tly honourable in his dealings—he is deeply regretted by all who knew him ; and many a tear is shed on his grave. The pen of truth will write on it—He was a just and good man.” There were many little difficulties in conne€tion with the Militia, and sometimes there were undoubtedly cases of oppression. Dr. or Major MCTuRK got into trouble in 1824, for imprisoning Private HUGHES in a fowl- house at Paradise, (which was chara€terised as small, dark and filthy), and was fined by the Court of Justice a thousand guilders. On HUGHES appealing to the Privy Council however, the fine was raised to ten thousand guilders. The ostensible reason for the confinement, which. lasted eight days, was a suspicion of writing an anonymous letter to the Chronicle refle€ting on Cap- tain SPENCER. The number containing this is missing in our file, but probably it may have been something. like that in the paper of August 25th 1824, of which the following is a sample :-— Is it customary for an_Adjutant to appear on parade 244 TIMEHRI. a little the worse for drink? Is it usual for an Adjutant to be accompanied by a black boy, dignified with the honourable appellation of Orderly, armed with a gin bottle? Is it the usual mode of drill to keep the whole Company at the present until the Adjutant gets his glass of grog? Is it the common praétice for Adjutants to drink on a parade in front of the men—lamenting that a gallon of porter-cup is so small a quantity that he cannot invite the Company to pattake? As all these things are put in pra€tice sometimes, | should like to know if they are common in the army. * we ein x * “ Tt is true that you sometimes have the misfortune to find a man in a corps, who, from his superior abilities in the performance of certain dirty offices—carrying every species of scandal to his Commanding Officer, paying court to his mistress if be has one, waiting on her with respe&t, carrying her dog to church, scratching the poll of her parrot—has forced his way from a halbert toa commission, and became as insolent to his superiors as he was before the cringing sycophant. I have known one of these fellows, the first time he dined at a mess, damn the waiters and the dinner, and swear he never eat such a bad one before; he should have omitted the word dad and then he was right.” The stilted magniloquent composition of the old-time schoolmaster is well-shewn by the following :— C. MARTIN DUNBAR Offers his most grateful thanks to the Parents of those children placed under his tuition, for the promised en- couragement held out by the continuance of their confi- dence, notwithstanding the establishment of a system so OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 245 highly approved and patronised, and so successful a commencement made for the propagation of religion and virtue. His not having lost any of his pupils, but rather continuing to increase, which at once evinces that a general satisfa€tion prevails among the Parents of those Children in the progress of their learning; and trusts that he shall ever continue to merit their approbation, by using all diligence to continue the like ; assuring them religion and virtue have ever been his aim, and glories in the delightful task, to pour instru€tion over the mind, to breathe the enlivening spirit, and fix the noble pur- pose ; with all its imitable perfe€tions as far as his own ability will admit of teaching good English reading, writing and arithmetic ; promising particular satisfaétion in writing, either round hand or Italian, whichever the child may be most inclined to. And to use his utmost endeavours for the promotion of religion and virtue ; to study complaisance and keep good order among them. As virtuous instruétion in a youth gradually produces flourishing manhood; complaisance renders a superior amiable ; an equal, agreeable ; and an inferior acceptable wherever he goes; virtue having rewards which shall outlive the grave. Wishing success to every promoter thereof, and for more advocates, say—God speed the plough. Georgetown, April 27th, (1820). The following is from the Gazette of April roth, 1815 :— *¢ Married at Gretna Green, Jan, 22nd, EDWARD BaRN- WELL of Demerara, to Miss MARTINI also of that colony.” The forerunner of the bicycle is well-described in the following :— 246 TIMERRI. FASHIONABLE AND HEALTHFUL EXERCISES. Received by the Z/izadbeth from Liverpool, and for Sale by the Subscriber. THE VELOCIPEDE; or Swift Walker.—This ‘truly original Machine is the invention of Baron CHARLES DE Drais, Master of the Woods and Forests of H.S.H., the Grand Duke of Baden; the account given by the inventor of its Nature and Properties is : 1. That on a well-maintained post road it will travel up hill as fast as an a€tive man can walk. 2. On a plain even after a heavy rain, it will go six or seven miles an hour, which is as swift as a courier. 3. When roads are dry and firm, it ‘runs on a plain at the rate of eight or nine miles an hour, which is equal to a horse’s gallop, 4. On a descent it equals a horse at full speed. Its theory is founded on the application of a wheel'to the action of a man in walking. With respeét to ‘the economy of power, this invention may be compared to the very ancient one of carriages. As a horse draws, in a well construéted carriage, both the carriage and its load much easier than he could carry the load alone on his back; so a man conduéts, by means of the Vetoci- pede, his body easier than if he had its whole weight to support on his feet. It is equally incontestible, that the Velocipede, as it makes but one impression or rut, may always be direéted on the best part of the road. Ona hard road the rapidity of the Velocipede resembles that of an expert skaiter ; as the principles of the two motions are the same. In truth, it runs a considerable dis- tance while the rider is inative, and with the same rapidity as when his feet, are in motion; andin a descent OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 247 it will beat the best horses in a great distance, without being exposed to the risks incidental to them, as it is guided by the mere gradual motion of the fingers, and may be instantly stopped by the feet. Also a few Tierces Rice. June 26th, (1819). JOSEPH HADFIELD, The following, which appeared as an advertisement in the Gazette of June 30th, 1825, refers to the introduc- tion of steam-boats into the colony :— “ We felicitate the Public in general on the proba- bility of the formation of a Joint Stock Company for the introduétion of One or more Steam Vessels for the Demerary River and Coast of British Guiana generally, having been correétly informed that a Prospeétus of the same is preparing, grounded on calculations of the pro- bable revenue which may be derived from the plan, with an estimate of the cost of a vessel of the class referred to, of power and dimensions adequate to the services to be performed, and an account of the annual expenses. “Of the many improvements of the age, in Arts and Sciences, there are none whose merits are more appre- ciated by society than those which have been effeéted in many ingenious ways by the agency of Steam, the application of which power to shipping in particular has been attended with such success, as that to judge from the great progress which it is making, we may infer, will, before long, subvert the present system of navi- gation. In faét, the use of Steam Vessels in countries where roads’ and water facilitate the movements of people in the ordinary way of travelling, has attra€ted so decided a preference, as that we may say this modern invention is become an appendage to most of such civil- I 248 TIMEHRIL. lized populations as nature has afforded the opening of migration by water. i “To valuable and well inhabited possessions like these, bounded on one side by an extensive sea coast, and watered by large navigable tivers, the introduétion of vessels propelled by steam would be of immeasurable utility, namely, to persons moving from place to place within these colonies, who would enjoy, united to rapid progress and easy movement, the pleasures ofa regularly supplied aburdant table and comfortable beds, at mode- rate rates and reduced prices of passage; for the con- veyance of troops on emergency, or to relieve garrisons at the different posts; and in particular to the ship- ping and agricultural interests, from the ability which the class of vessel in question possesses of giving to valuable cargoes a prompt departure homeward at any period of the tides, by towing them into deep water, notwithstanding the existing impediments in the river which obstruct their passages, too often to the great detriment of their owners. To which facility to trade, should that of pilotage be added, we are confident that the mercantile part of our community, in particular, would eagerly desire an early introduétion here of so great an auxiliary to their exertions and concerns. “With a view to place the suggested Company on a firm and respeétable footing, it is intended to submit a Prospeétus of the Scheme to His Excellency the Lieuten- ant Governor and the Honourable Court of Policy at their next meeting.” In 1844 when RUIN was impending over the whole colony, it was proposed to have a ball, but a correspond- ent in the Gazette of June 15th said it was heartless OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 249 wickedness to rejoice at such a time; he would suggest rather a general lachrymation in the shape of something like a funeral, as follows :— Insolvent Debtors, angry, noisy, and vociferating loudly. Creditors of Insolvent Debtors, wailing in a low tone. Little boys and girls roaring out lustily, being severely flogged by numerous half-starved schoolmasters. (These to be flanked on the right by Judges singing ‘definitive sentences’ in a low tone, and on the left by Marshals scattering large numbers of Writs of Execution). Band of the 1st West India playing the Dead March, and catching their tears in their Albert caps. The Governor and Combined Court cutting down the salaries,—the flag of the Court of Policy having for device the ‘ Unsold Scrip of the Immigration Loan.’ (Flanked on right and left by Public Officers scream- ing with agony.) Eidolon or ghost of the ‘ Civil List.’ Any mournful looking Custom-house Officer to be found about the Buildings. Colonial Receiver, with a large empty sack. Receiver-General of Town Taxes, followed by house- less, windowless widows, crying bitterly. (Flanked by holders of third Mortgages on the right, and Sequestrated Planters on the left). Broken implements of husbandry; broken Cash-boxes, and a few tons of protested Bills, supported by two Peasants, two Merchants, and the Managers of the two Banks. (Flanked by starved Overseers and discharged Mana- gers). 2 250 TIMEHRI. Merchants of Water-street, preceded by their princi- pal * Howler,” who wil! lead ¢hezr lamentations. Large body of Creditors, headed by aged decayed Merchants, Large body of Debtors, headed by dissipated junior , Clerks. The procession may be closed by the Editor of the Times, between the jailor and the hangman, all crying lustily, particularly the Zzmes.” Readers of WATERTON’S “ Wanderings” have no doubt been often puzzled by the illustration of the “ Non- descript”’ and the genial traveller’s guarded account of the animal. It is well-known now that the bust was that of a howling monkey, and that it had been moulded in such a way as to make the face appear decidedly human. WATERTON tried to hoax the people of Georgetown by exhibiting it here in December, 1824, as a specimen of “the real Wild Man of the Woods—approaching to our own form infinitely nearer than the famed Ourang Outang of Borneo.” The story of its capture is thus given in the Chronicle of December 24th :— ‘A friend of ours, alike celebrated for his love of science, and his indefatigable researches into the arcana of nature, has added to the history of the latter a speci- men of the most surprising description. How this phenomenon came into his possession will be best ex- plained in his own words; and as the veracity of our friend has never been called in question, the subjeé& will not admit of contradi€tion, He has further for the grati- fication of naturalists and professional gentlemen, de- posited with us, at our particular request (previously to its being shipped to England) the head and shoulders OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 258 of this—-animal we were going to say, but we know not with what propriety we could apply the epithet—the beholders will judge the case ;—but for ourselves we were never so amazed in our lives as at the sight of such symmetry and perfection, far excelling in beauty of fea- ture—however much our self-love may suffer in compari- son —the inhabitants of a great part of the globe. VERY INTERESTING TO NATURALISTS. The Indians in the interior of Guiana will tell you that far to the north-west there is a nation of men with tails; they are a cruel and malicious race and inhabit . the highest trees. Any person of common information - in natural history would of course conclude that these men the Indians speak of are nothing but a large kind of monkey. I had often a wish to go and shoot one of these animals, but it was no easy matter to persuade an Indian to shew me the place where they were to be found. The Indians said that if they killed one its nation would take ample vengeance on them, by despatching him who had committed the crime, and by visiting the rest of his family with sickness, with the horrors, and with death. At last, for a considerable reward, I persuaded an Indian to be my guide to these terrible and curious animals. The weather was remarkably fine, and we set off through the gloomy wilds to the south-west. | carried an air-gun and a dagger, and the Indian had his bow and poisoned arrows, and was provided with provisions for two weeks. After a long and dreary march we came to a place where the trees were immensely high. There the Indian made a dead stop, and declared that he would go no further, for he was sure that the men with the tails were not far off; his countenance fell, and he kept saying every now 252 TIMEHRI. and then that he sorely repented he had ever been per- suaded to undertake the journey—he begged hard that I would go back and not think of molesting them; for if I did it would be all over with both of us. I pushed him on with a stern look, chiding him for his cowardice. “We had not advanced more than half a mile before he pointed out something very thick near the tops of the trees, resembling rooks’ nests, but vastly more bulky. ‘There,’ said he, in a mournful whisper—‘ ¢here is one of their settlements, and I can see smoke coming out of some of them!’ ‘If there be smoke,’ said I, it must be about their dinner-time, and I wish I was up at them, for I am confoundedly hungry.’ I could see this piece of false wit of mine vexed him; he said I had better be thinking of something else—and then staring wildly in my face, he lifted up his hands in despair and fled precipitately. ‘Just as he left me I heard a rustling in one of the high tufted trees near me. I instantly took aim with the air-gun, and down dropped the animal, lifeless, at my feet. Here for the first time I saw the real wild man of the woods. I may say with the poet,— ‘ Obstupui, steter untque comme et vox faucibus hasit.’ “T looked at him again and again, and was sorry | had ever gone in quest of him, There was no time to. be lost. I did not know what sort of an enemy I had to deal with. The animal was too large to carry—so, taking out my knife, I cut off his head and shoulders, threw them on my back, and set off in the direétion the Indian had gone—looking up every now and then in the trees behind me to see if I were not pursued by some of their police ; for I strongly suspeéted I had unfortunately killed a man—-nor have I yet made up my mind upon the OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 253 subje&t. I traced the Indian to about two miles off and there I found him in great perplexity. On look- ing at what I had brought on my shoulders, he be- came terrified and said I had killed a man of the bad and cruel nation—that I should soon fall sick and die, and that the murdered ghost would haunt him and his family, and punish them terribly in revenge for his having shown me the way to their territory. “Without putting much faith in the prophecy, I disse€ted and stuffed the head and shoulders of the animal, Here then we have a specimen of the real wild man of the woods—approaching to our own form infinitely nearer than the famed ourang-outang of Borneo. The more it is inspeéted the more it will puzzle Naturalists ; and to determine upon and settle its classification will require much more knowledge than I am taster of. After all, it will probably baffle the united talents and information of the first Naturalists of the day. Kes” /n the course of the day several hundreds of our community have been gratified with a sight of the wild man—and several, recollecting the tmposture of the Mermaid, have examined it with a nicety proportionate to their suspicions—which have by such examinations been entirely dissipated. This was followed by two letters in the Gazette of the 30th, both poking fun at the Chronicle and its “wild ? one of which ran as follows :— man,’ “‘ Sir,—Being an enthusiast in curiosity-hunting, you must naturally imagine that I not only read with avidity and delight the editorial columns of Friday and Monday’s Fumli-paper, but that I also dreamt on the subje& each following night. Thinking, indeed, just prior to going 254 TIMEHRI. to sleep, most intensely on that part of the last narrative, in which the Demerary BUFFON believes the second little man now exhibiting to belong to the judzczal department, ‘‘Gads,” said I, dreaming, who knows but what that which seemed to be a ‘rook’s nest’ (vzde first narrative) was in reality the Judge’s wig/ Fired with the thought, and mad to possess so rare an article, I resolved to set off in search of it. So, following BUFFON’S example, I called QUACO, the cook —ordered a fortuight’s provisions, and with my boy QUAMMY (a shrewd Esse- queboian negro) set off instantly for the south-west. We had not travelled more than ¢wo hundred miles before we fell in with the blood-marked track of the destroyer ; and following that, we very soon came to his theatre of anatomy. There, true enough, still lay the mangled remains of the A/an of the Woods! which, however, QuAMMY no sooner saw than he exclaimed, ‘Ouw, Massa, Massa; no wonder this—no man at all—me see too many such t’ings—this nothing but a ’, ©Pshaw! cried I, § You’re no Naturalist, QUAMMY; hold your. tongue—‘tis a superior being! depend upon it; you never saw such a thing in your life.’ The negro, main- taining an obedient but full-of-meaning kind of silence, we pushed on rapidly for the important tree. We reached it—but only to be disappointed! Like the base- less fabric of a vision, it had left not a wreck behind! The WIG, even the wig was gone; and [ull of chagrin, I left the place, despairing of carrying anything home, when I recolle&ted the gcblets, paws and trotters of the mur- dered non-descript! Suffice it to say, they will be ready for exhibition in the market-place on Friday the /7rsé of April, 1825.—Yours, &c.,, GABRIEL GULL. OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 255 Here is another of the “ skits” which was published in the Gazette of Jan. 1st, 1825 :-— “When, Mr. Editor, will wonders cease ?—I was taking last evening, my customary walk along the Main Street, ruminating on scenes of past happiness, and creating in perspeétion a little world for fancy to rove in unrestrained,—when all these airy visions were put to flight by a rapid footstep approaching me. I drew my “ mind’s eyes” from the ideal world I had just pi€tured, and beheld a man hurrying towards me, with his hands thrust deep into his breeches pockets, his mouth open to that enormous extent as at first to excite a dread that the poor fellow had cut his throat, and his eyes so com- pletely out of their sockets as to render a very consider- able olfa€tory protuberance but a slight obstacle to their mutual recognition. “I unconsciously made way for him, and turning as he passed, my astonishment may be easily conceived at beholding him grasp the extended hand of another individual bearing similar marks of terror in his counte- nance. I halted in hopes of ascertaining the cause of these éxtraordinary symptons, when one of them suddenly exclaimed in an alarmed but impressive tone, “Weel, DONALT, h’ae ye seen the Peast.””—‘ Lord, mun,”’ said the other, “be canny wi’ your tongue; ca’ ye yon crater a Peast ?”—‘“ Guid guide us DUGALT, / thought 1¢ was the Laird!” “ And troth it’s unca like her nain sel,’ added the first, “I got a fearfu’ scare; I maist fell intil a trance.’ But,” continued he, “ DONALT, that’s no the Peast I’m specing aboot, it’s anither ane wi’ wungs—I never saw the like o’ it.—It’s a’ that a body can di to take it in wi’ his eyne, and for a’ KK 256 TIMEHRI. that the chield that catched it wishes to gar folk believe that elka ane can swa//ow it—some folk mun ha’e strange stamacks,” “ T waited no longer, but posted off to my friend the Naturalist, immortalized in the Chronicles of Guiana, in hopes of having some light thrown on the above mysteri- ous conversation.—I found him in deep thought contem- plating a bloody sword that lay on the table; he started on my advancing, and bent his brows in displeasure on me, Eut on my apologizing for my intrusion and explaining the cause of my visit, his countenance relaxed its aus- terity, and he courteously beckoned me to a chair—after a silence of a few minutes, with a deep-drawn sigh, he related the following circumstances, which I shall give in his own words :— ‘* After returning to the Mora tree with the second Arawatoyano I had murdered, I sat down witha gloomy presentiment of some evil; and was soon so deeply wrap’d in thought that the shadows of evening wete fast descending before I began to refleét on the loneliness of my situation. I was roused by the low growlings of the Beasts of the Forest—the winds had risen to a hurricane, the clouds rolled in thick volumes over my head, and as the distant thunder gave awful note of an impending storm, the crashing of the trees strewed in all direétions, convinced me it would be madness to proceed farther that night. The size of the Mora and the imperious thickness of its foliage banished all fear of its fall, or my suffering any inconvenience from the rain which now began to descend in torrents. Night had now spread his mantle over the Forest, and the lightening, which at intervals flashed on the scene merely tended to OTHER TIMES, OTHER MANNERS. 257 make visible the pitchy blackness ofits folds. I colle€ted my burden, and placing it in a cleft of the Mora, kindled a fire to ensure me against the attacks of the Wild Beasts which were now prowling in all dire€tions. I drew my cloak closely round me, but had scarce composed my limbs when I was roused by a confused buzzing noise, and starting up, beheld a creature descending with extended wing and flying round the fire, dart suddenly on the dead Arawatoyano; I grasped my sword, and aiming a deadly blow, it fell severed in two to the earth. So bright were its wings that I could scarcely persuade myself I had not killed an Ange/, and so immense its size that in making my escape, (which I thought it prudent to do immediately), I could carry away only the upper half. I arrived, he continued, on the tenth day after this adventure, in Georgetown, and on reference to my books, am inclined to class it among the Bug species.” He here ceased—I immediately rose, thanked him for his information, and being something of a Naturalist my- self, hurried to the Guzana Chronicle Office, where | now recognised this extraordinary animal to be nothing but a Hum Bug!—Your obedient servant, JEREMY COCKLOFT. ‘*JOHN SUCKLING,” came out in the next paper with another “skit” in which he described an encounter with the *‘ men whose heads do grow beneath their shoulders.” Everybody appears to have taken the affair as a hoax, and no doubt the genial traveller enjoyed the whole thing immensely. KK 2 Migratory Birds in British Guiana. By $. $. Quelch, B.Sc., (Lond.), C.M.Z.S. gj) NDER the special heading here of migratory | birds, are included those species that go through periodic migration to the tropics from the northern latitudes during the autumn and winter months. Locally there is a general migration of many very different forms, dependent chiefly on the dry and wet seasons, and the consequent scarcity or abundance of special kinds of food in different parts of the colony. Thus, on certain parts of the coast, pigeons and parrots, for example, are remarkably abundant at certain times (as during the fruiting season), and particularly scarce at others. The great storks, too, such as the Negrocop or Jabiru (Mycterta), the Heri (Czconia), and others, which are during the wet seasons so common on the flooded low savannahs, where they feed chiefly either on the inseéts and reptiles driven out of the undergrowth and of the surface debris, or on the fish and other aquatic forms which have spread abroad from the rivers and creeks, are hardly to be found when the waters have drained off in the dry weather, except along the courses of the streams themselves, or where isolated ponds, or lakes occur And the same may be said, too, of the Ducks in general; while birds such as the Rails, Crakes, Water- hens, etc., which are generally scattered among the low bushy vegetation along the banks of streams passing through permanently swampy distriéts, and on the mar- gins of low-lying ponds, frequently wander far over the flooded savannahs among the rank and transient vege- MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 259 tation that springs up during the wet weather, more espe- cially along the small depressions that are natural drainage channels to the main streams. Among the resident birds which frequent the towns and settlements and the adjacent cleared lands, and which in general are markedly omnivorous, but little local migration is observable; and it is possible at all times to find specimens of the common tyrant-shrikes, the hangnests, the anis, the finches, the tanagers and such like forms, in the distri€ts where they have once been observed. The same may be said, too, of birds of markedly special diet such as the Kingfishers, and of those forms which obtain their food on the mudflats, exposed at low tide, either by the sea, or along the estu- aries and lower portions of the rivers. The uniformity and permanence of food conditions generally, under the tropics, evidently lead to the regular presence of the greater number of species, whether the individuals are accustomed to a narrow range in place, due to their smallness of size and weakness of flight, as for instance in the tyrant-shrikes and finches, or whether they range over great distances, as in the generality of the hawks. ‘The most extreme case in the colony of this regularity of presence in any given place, may be found in the Hoat- zin or Reptilian bird (Opzsthocomus cristatus,) which, being most stri€tly phytophagous finds in the leaves or fruit of two or three plants, according to the season, the whole means of subsistence required. Weakness of flight prevents the birds from wandering far from their usual haunts, nor have they any incentive to do so when their food conditions are permanent and secure. 260 TIMEHRI. Special cases of local migration occur in many groups during the breeding season, as in the Scarlet Ibis and the Egrets, which, at such times, swarm in certain un- frequented parts of the coast, more especially in the swampy parts of the bush-covered alluvial islands, while they are usually widely distributed at other times. The great storks, too, seem to betake themselves to elevated points in the wilds of the interior, as do the brilliant Cotingas, which, however, though descending far from the high lands, never leave the high forest after the breeding season. On these birds, as on many others, observations are greatly needed on the life history, habits and habitats; but the difficulties to be contended with have hitherto almost precluded the possibility of etic. exact knowledge. Of the migratory birds proper, from the wintry dis- tri€ts of the northern regions, the United States and Canada, we have representatives of many different groups, through the great majority of forms belong to the families of the plover and the snipe, including such forms as the stilts, the curlews, the yellow-shanks and the sand- pipers. It is worthy of special note that scanty as are the records of the path of migration of the species, the special problems of migration in the western hemisphere are not less interesting than those in the eastern. Not so many years ago, apparently sound ideas were held as to many of the problems of migration, on lines that seemed reasonable and intelligible, but recent extended observations, and more especially those of HERR GATKEon the island of Heligoland, carried out during a long course of years, have more or less discredited many past hypo- theses, and we are to-day in face of problems as regards MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 261 migration that seem more removed from any satisfa€tory explanation than they have been for many long years. Here in British Guiana, chances of adding materially to our knowledge of migration can scarcely be said to exist. Very many species of migrants do pass south- wards along our coasts, while certain others are only known from the highlands of the interior; but the opportunities of making detailed and exaét records are by no means satisfaétory. Owing to the vast traéts of country that are entirely unexplored, undeveloped and unsettled, huge areas, along which migration may take place, are entirely unknown and unrecorded ; while even where migratory birds may be noted in the in- terior, the want generally of sufficient knowledge on the part of the observers would lead rather to confusion than to the explanation of the problems to be solved. Many of our resident species occur as migrants in the United States, ranging to Texas and Florida, and even further north; but it is at present impossible to say definitely how far south these migrants travel. The American Warblers are specially to be noted. In the case of one of these (Dendreca estiva), the Summer Yellow-bird of the United States, locally passing under the general name of “Canary,” the individuals are cer- tainly much more numerous here during the times of migration, most probably indicating that birds from the northern distriéts had arrived. This species occurs commonly along the coast being very plentiful in George- town during the autumn and winter months g but it may well be that other species occur in the forest distri€ts and on the open plains and mountains of the interior. The Black Poll Warbler (D. striata) of the United 262 TIMEHRI. States certainly occurs on the highlands, having been obtained on the siopes around Roraima, but whether these specimens were migrants or not, there is nothing toshow. So, too, in the case of the Small American Red- start or Flycatcher (Setophaga rutacilla), which was obtained in the same distriét. Even as regards the birds obtained on or near the coast, belonging to species that are migrants in the north, it is not always possible to determine whether they are true migrant forms here or not. So little is known locally about many of our species, especially of the smaller kinds, that there is no comparison possible as to their relative abundance in the different parts of the year; and though it would seem that species occurring here in the summer are residents, yet where only one or two specimens have been noted, they may possibly be migrants that have remained behind. There is this diffi- culty in the case as regards the Water Thrush (Sczurus nevius) which is a common migrant in the northern regions. The Purple Martin, on the other hand appears to be one of our true migrants. In the case of the swallows, all of them birds of great flight, and many of them pre- ferring the haunts of man, the question becomes a simpler one. In the White-breasted Purple Martin (Progne chalybea), and the Common Martin (P. tapera), we know that the birds are constant residents, being abun- dant throughout the year, and nesting usually under the eaves or on*the ledges and supports of the houses. The Sand Martn and the Red-breasted or Barn Swal- low, which are so common in the northern latitudes during the summer, appear to be true migrants here also, MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 263 in marked contrast with other forms, sometimes even of the same genus, which are constant residents, More special examples of migrants are to be found in the Bob-o’link or small Rice-bird, in the Red-bird, and the American Cuckoo (Coccygus americanus), representa- tives of the three families of the Hangnests, the Tanagers and the Cuckoos, which may be called most distin &tively tropical, since almost the whole number of species are constant residents in the tropics. It is noteworthy that in the case of the Red-birds (Pyranga zstiva) they seem to occur only on the high lands of the interior, having never been taken on the coast lands; while the Cuckoo appears commonly on the coast. Another special example is to be found in the northern Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon), of which two examples have been found on the coast. This migrant of the northern regions is known to descend to several parts of Central America and the West Indies, but the Guianas would seem to be its extreme range southwards. The King- bird, too, the most typical of the northern tyrant-shrikes, seems occasionally to descend as a straggler to winter with us. The most interesting and the most noticeable cases of migration, however, occur among the members of the Grallz, Towards the end of August, and the beginning of September, great flights of many species make their appearance, more especially on the open grassy lands and savannahs; and in fa&, the first of September, the time of the arrival of these birds, has been fixed by the Legislature as the beginning of the open or shoot- ing season for certain game birds, the five months previous being by law declared a close season for all LL 264 TIMEHRI. birds throughout the colony. True this proteétion was originally given on the idea that the summer months represented the breeding season of tropical species as well as of those of the co’der latitudes, a conclusion that we know is by no means in accordance with all the faéts of the case, It is worth noting that while great numbers of these species of migrants are to be found on the coast dis- tri€éts during September and Oétober, they gradually thin away—the plovers and yellow-shanks, etc., appa- rently passing on further south, leaving a few strag- glers only behind, while a few forms only, such as the sandpipers and the curlews, remain during the winter months. It is remarkable, too, that those mi- grants that have passed south are not noticed on their return journey along the coast ; and, in faét, we are altogether ignorant of the path of their migration north- wards. Possibly it may be along the mountainous tracks of the interior of the colony, or even further west, but we have no faéts whatever on which to found an opinion, though the presumption may be made that, in a more dire&t northern flight towards their special breeding grounds, their course may lie across the open ocean, It has been already stated that many of these birds are found in large flights, but to judge from the description given of migrants passing southwards over North-western Europe, where at times the sky is blackened by the density of birds in flight, or where the ground in certain parts is really covered by thick clusters, there is nothing here comparable to such sights. True some hun- dreds of birds are occasionally seer together on the open flats, but usually they are met with in small flocks. This, MIGRATORY BiRDs IN BRITISH GUIANA. 2605 no doubt, is largely due to the faét of the splitting up of the large numbers that are observed starting for the south, many resting on the West Indian Islands, and others on the different parts of the Central and South American Coast, while doubtless thousands upon thou- sands perish in their long and severe flight. It is to be noticed that, so far, in the scanty col- le€tions made in the far interior, it has been a rare occurrence to find representatives of these birds, though exceptional forms do now and then occur; and as the greater numbers of such colleétions have been made during the months when the migrants are most common on the coasts on their southward journey, we may take it as an indication that these species do not occur on the highlands except as stragglers, but pass regularly along the maritime districts. A very marked feature in these migratory birds is the occurrence of many of the same species in the Eastern Hemisphere, a condition quite exceptional among the American and Old World avifauna. Several of our species are recorded as stragglers, or exceptional forms, in the Handbooks of British Birds, while others are regular migrants passing southwards to winter in South Africa and Asia, and even in Australia and New Zealand. In a few cases, some of these birds breed plentifully in Greenland, and possibly this was the point from which some were originally diverted across to the other hemis- phere, in numbers sufficient to establish themselves as regular visitors. In other cases, however, where the species breed regularly throughout the arctic and tempe- rate distri€ts of N. America, wintering constantly in the south, the stragglers to England and other parts of LL 2 266 TIMEHRI. Europe, must be considered as having accomplished the immense distance across the Atlantic. It is to be noted, by the way, that the best authorities consider that such adverse flights must be greatly assisted by occasional perching on the rigging of ships during the journey. The most common of these migrants is certainly the American Golden Plover (Charadrius virginicus) known also as Black-breasts and Greenbacks. Arriving here sparsely in August, they increase in numbers in September and Oétober, gradually disappearing in the latter month, until in November, with the exception of a few stragglers which may have been left behind, they pass southwards in their further migration. On the lowlands of the coast, on the grassy spaces, and on the sandbanks, they will be found in often quite large flights, though it is reported that the numbers recently noticed are markedly fewer than in former years, while at the same time they vary greatly from year to year. On the interior savannahs, specimens have also been taken, but from their fewness they should no doubt be regarded as stragglers. RICHARD SCHOMBURGEK, in his ‘* Reisen in Britisch Guiana,” records the nesting of this species on the sand-banks of the coast, the eggs being from 2 to 3 in number; but unless some mistake was made as to the species, the nesting can only have been quite occasional, and due to stragglers. The flesh of the bird, as in the case of nearly all our migrants, is greatly in request for the table, and large numbers of them are shot in the season. This continuous slaughter, which they meet with along their entire course of migration, is no doubt chiefly responsible for the very large reduction in the numbers which are observed to MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 267 appear during the spring in the northern latitudes, as contrasted with those that left during the autumn. Though they are shy and timid, they seldom fly for any great distance before they settle again after being disturbed, and owing to the large numbers in a flight, it is not difficult to secure them in quantity. The American Golden Plover was for a long time con- founded with the European species, but the latter can readily be distinguished by its white axillary wing fea- thers as against the light brown feathers of the local forms, while it is also slightly larger—though the latter charaéter would hardly be noticed except from a very close comparison, Considerable differences of opinion, too, exist as regard this bird, as to its specific identity with, or difference from, the common smaller Asiatic plover, which is closely similar to it. Quite recently they have been included in one and the same species, under the name domzinicus. This plover can readily be recognised among the other migrants with which it is found. The beak is short, being slightly shorter than the head, straight, and curving slightly at the tip. The upper plumage is mottled with black and greenish-yellow, which gives a peculiar greenish tinge to the bird. The under surface is either mottled with black and white, the black being in large patches, or is whitish; while the young are much duller throughout. The toes are three in number, the hinder toe being absent. The length of the body is nearly 11 inches, A very peculiar and interesting specimen which was obtained by the Hon. E. C, Luarp on the East Coast, Demerara, in O€tober 1895, presented a nearly uniform 268 TIMEHRI. oe white colouring throughout, the greenish-yellow mottling being scarcely evident on the rump, and the brown of the quills of the wings very slightly indicated in small patches. Unfortunately, owing to the carelessness of the taxider- mist to whom it was given by me for preservation, the specimen was lost, The American Golden Plovers are known to breed high up in the Arétic regions of North America, from Alaska to Greenland, whither they pass in the early spring through the United States and Canada. At the end of summer, after breeding, they migrate in parties, the greater number of the young birds apparently passing southwards through the United States, by an overland route, during August and September, while the greater number of the older birds start out southwards by a sea route, past the Bermudas, thence to the West India Islands and South America, in which latter continent they are found as far south as Buenos Ayres. After their extremely long sea journey, it is said they are some- times so exhausted and tame when they reach the West Indies that they can be knocked down with sticks and stones. Closely allied to the Golden Plover, is the Turnstone (Strepsilas interpres), locally known as the White- winged Plover. This bird varies so much in plumage that its different forms might often be held to be distiné by the uninitiated. The chief points by which it may be recognised are easy to note. The bill is slightly shorter than the head, black, straight, and like an attenu- ated blunt cone, The feet are reddish orange, and the toes four in number, the hind toe being present. Length of bird about 9} inches, MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 269 The adult birds have the head white, more or less streaked or mottled with black. The upper surface is chestnut-red, mottled with black, except for white bars on the wings and tail. The breast is black, this colour often coming high up the neck—tbe rest of the under surface being white. In the young birds, the black and red of the adult plumage become more or less rufous and brown. These birds arrive here at the same time as the Golden Plover, and being greatly appreciated for the table are shot whenever possible. The earliest arrivals seem dis- tinétly to be young birds, in their duller plumage. A special feature of this species lies in the faét of its being as common in the Old Word as it is in the New— a feature already pointed out as quite exceptional in the avifauna of the two regions. In the Old World, it is known to nest in extreme N. W. Europe in the early summer, passing later to the south, extending from England to Siberia, and thence migrating to Southern Asia and Africa, Polynesia and New Zealand for the winter, and returning to its usual haunts for breeding in the spring. In the New World, the Turnstone breeds in the Ar€tic regions generally, eastwards as far as Greenland, and passes through Canada and the United States south- wards in the early spring in its migration. These birds frequent the open flats by the sea, where they will be found turning over with their beaks the sea- weeds and stones, under which they seek the crustaceans and molluscs which form the chief part of their food. From this habit, they have derived the common name by which they are chiefly known in both hemispheres. _The local name ‘‘ White-winged Plover” is given on 270 TIMEHRI. account of the white bar which crosses the inner part of the wing. Allied to the two preceding species are three forms of the old genus £gza/itis, one of which seems to be a con- stant resident, while the others are true migrants. In these birds the bills are shorter and thicker in proportion than in the Golden Plover, and the body much smaller, their length being under 7} inches. The toes are three, the hind toe being absent, These species will readily be distinguished by the marked black collar, or frontlet, on the white breast. The resident species, the Small Ring Plover (2. collaris) is the smallest, its length being 6 inches ; the collar does not surround the neck; the top of the head is black, with white front and sides; while the upper surface generally has a markedly rufous tint. Somewhat larger than this is the common Ring Plover or Ring-neck (. semipalmata). In this migrant the length is about 7 inches; a black collar entirely surrounds the neck, preceded by a white ring ; the top of the head is black, this colour being continued under the eyes and over the ears; the feet and bill are orange-red, the latter being much shorter than the head, and black at the tip. This bird is smaller than the European Ring Plover with which it is often confounded. Its habits, however, are quite similar. It arrives here in September, and during the later months, it appears to pass on further south, but representatives are met with throughout the winter. It is known to breed in the Ar&ic distriéts of N, America. The second migrant of the genus, the Great-billed or MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 271 Wilson’s Plover (2. wi/sonia), is very similar in general colouring and markings to the Small Ring Plover, except that the rufous tints are barely represented, It is, how- ever, easily distinguished from the two preceding by its greater size—length 74 inches—and by its long and thick, black bill, which is as long as the head, and much swollen towards the tip. Several distinétive charaéters have caused its reference to a separate genus of its own, Ochthodromus, under which it will now-a-days be found, This species does not appear to be a common migrant here, though no doubt it may have often been confounded with Holopterus cayanus, the Spur-wing Plover. This latter species is much more commonly met with on the coast in the winter months, though it remains with us throughout the year, being especially abundant along the interior streams. Its plumage is much more marked with black than the Ringed Plovers, its size is greater, and the wings are furnished with a sharp spur. The American Peewit or Lapwing which is closely allied to the preceding, is also a constant resident with us. The greater number of our migrants, to which reference will row be briefly made, belong to the family of the snipes, though indeed our true snipes are constant resi- dents. They will readily be recognised -by their long and thin beaks, which are slightly obtuse at the tip. Perhaps the commonest of these is the Big-yellow- shanks (Zotanus melanoleucus), known locally as the Pica Plover. This species will readily be recognised by its large size (14 inches in length), its bright yellow legs, and its long, thin and black beak, which is more than two inches in length. The upper surface is a mottled brown, black and grey, and the under surface grey and white. MM 272 TIMEHRI. The Pica arrives here on the coast with the Golden Plover, and leaves at about the same time, but many stragglers remain throughout the marshy alluvial islands. They are also occasionally met with in the early part of March, though it is by no means certain whether these are returned migrants from the far south, or colleéted groups from our interior savannahs. They are known to breed high up in the northern latitudes. Very similar in markings and colouring to the Pica is the small or common Yellow-shanks (Zotanus flavipes) which comes as a migrant at the same time as the other species of snipes and plovers, and is occasionally a strag- gler even in England and on the Continent of Europe, — where well authenticated records are known. The little Yellow-shanks is easily distinguished from the preceding species by its size, its length being about 10 inches—often slightly more or less—while the black beak is about 14 inches long. The legs are also bright yellow, and from their thinness, appear of great length— hence the term Yellow Long-shanks sometimes applied to them. These birds are known to breed as far north as Arétic America, and to range south to Patagonia. Many strag- glers remain with us throughout the winter. Though the flesh of the two Yellow-shanks is not con- sidered as a delicacy by many, and is far inferior to that of the plover and the snipe, yet the birds are shot in large numbers, and from the scarcity on the coast of the more relished game birds, these are regarded as welcome sub- stitutes when they arrive. Somewhat larger than the above, and about 12 inches in length, is BARTRAM’S Sandpiper (Bartramialongicauda), MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 293 which is known under a variety of common names in the different localities which it frequents, such as Grey Plover, Grass or Field Plover, and even Prairie Pigeon. The colouring throughout is much brighter and more glossy than in the two preceding species, and partakes largely of yellowish and reddish brown, deeply banded, becoming of a marked arrow-headed shape on the lower breast and sides—a charaéter by which the species will readily be recognised. The legs are of a deep yellowish green, and the beak is yellowish at the base, darkening to the tip, its length being somewhat less than in the small Yellow-shanks, though exceeding one inch. The species occurs exceptionally as a wanderer to the British Isles, and on the continent of Europe, where authenticated specimens have been killed. Here in the colony, it is a common migrant with the other forms, though many more seem to frequent the interior highlands than in the other cases, and remain as stragglers through- out the winter months. It is known to breed as far north as the Artic circle, and to range southward in its migra- tion as far as Buenos Ayres. A very curious and distinét form, which is certainly a migrant in the United States, and one that is by no means a common resident, or an obtrusive migrant here is the Black-necked Stilt, familiarly known also as Red- legs or Longshanks (Himantopus nigricollis). This bird is to be found here at all times of the year, but more especially at the beginning of the drying off of the water of the heavy wet season, when they may occasionally be met with in pairs on the grassy lands of the coast or on the mudflats. The species will readily be recognised by the very MM 2 274 TIMEHRI. long and thin black beak and pink legs—the former being nearly three inches in length, and the latter 7 inches. The legs are so peculiarly long and thin, in comparison with the size of the body, that they appear more like stilts than the legs of an ordinary bird. In faét, when the bird is seen standing, it is hard to realise that the two long spindle-like legs, which seem to be entirely artificially attached, are not merely stuck in by some badly trained taxidermist, since they stand straight out from the body and nearly at right angles with it. It is a remarkable thing that, when the bird stands upon one leg, and the other is drawn up near the body, in spite of the great length of the limb, it is hidden entirely in the feathers of the breast and abdomen, so that not a vestige of it is exposed. To the closest ob- servation, the bird appears then to be decidedly one- legged. Its perfe€t balance, too, is noteworthy, more especially considering the absence of the hind-toe. It was curious to note, in the case of a bird which was kept in confinement for some weeks, that whenever worms were given to it, it invariably dropped them in the little tank of water in its cage before eating them. The general upper surface of this species is of a deep greenish glossy black, the prevailing under colour being white. Another migrant which will at once be recognised by its thin, long and flexible beak, and its long, slender, light blue legs, with four toes, is the Red-breasted God- wit or Marlin (Limosa hudsonica). This bird is but seldom obtained on the coast in the colony, though con- sidering its range, they must pass through equatorial America in considerable numbers on their way south. MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA, 275 The length of the bird is about from 14 to 16 inches, the beak being about 34 inches. The upper surface is black or greyish brown, with more or less mottling or edging of white and rufous. Beneath, the colour varies from a deep chestnut with dusky bars to a grey or streaked brownish tint, according to the season. The species is known to breed as far north as the Arétic regions of North America, and ranges in the winter to the extreme south of South America. Easily distinguished from all the preceding by its long and slender curved beak, is the Jack Curlew or American Whimbrel (Numentius hudsonicus). This species is one of the commonest of our migrants, being found plentifully during the winter months along the mudflats and sandy banks of the coast, as well as on the shores of the alluvial islands and along the estuaries ofthe rivers. At all times of the day, but more especially in the early morning and late evening, they will be found feeding on the small fish, crustacea, worms, etc., which occur so plentifully on the flats. At such times they are by no means shy, andcan be shot with but little difficulty. This Curlew is larger than any of the other migrants described, being about 16 inches in length. Its prevail- ing colour above is brown with paler markings, and the under surface white, with streaks and bars of brown. The axillaries of the wings are reddish. This American species is very closely related to its European representative, the Common Whimbrel, and in fa&t it is distinguished by but slight chara€ters. It is known to breed in the extreme north of North America, and extends its southward range over the whole of South America. It has even once been recorded from Spain. 276 TIMEHRI. In the grassy pastures of the coast, but more usually on the flats, will be found the Willet or Stone Snipe or Curlew (Symphemia semipalmata), generally known here as the White-winged Curlew from the white bars and edgings of the wings. This species is larger than most of the common mi- grants, being about 15 inches in length, with a strong and thick, straight beak, of about two inches in length. The bill and feet are of a deep bluish tint, and the toes are united at the base by a membrane. The upper sur- face is blackish-brown, mottled with rufous, grey and white, or with wavy brown bars with reddish blotches on the sides. This bird is known to range as far north as the United States and Canada, where it breeds, descending to the Equatorial distri€ts of South America in its migration. Specimens of this species are obtainable in the colony at all times of the year as stragglers, though during the season of migration, and during the winter months, they are much more numerous. Occasional stragglers have even been recorded from Europe. It has already been mentioned that the true snipes of the colony are resident species, and this is certainly the case with regard to our two species of Gallinago proper. The Red-breasted snipe (Macrorhamphus griseus), how- ever, which breeds in the extreme north, migrating for the winter to Central and South America and the West Indies, certainly visits us, though the birds seem to be but rarely obtained. This species is about the size of the common snipes being from 10 to 11 inches in length. The beak and legs are olive-coloured, the former being slender and MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 277 about 2 inches in length. The upper and under parts are markedly rufous, blotched and barred with a dark tint, though the winter plumage is more or less brownish grey and white. Stragglers have at times been taken in Great Britain and on the continent of Europe. Of the various sandpipers, perhaps the commonest visitor is the Solitary Sandpiper or the Wood Tatler (Rhyncophilus solitarzus), which will be met with singly by the waterside in nearly all parts of the colony. Many of these small sandpipers certainly remain with us all the year round. This bird is about 8 inches in length, with a beak of 1} inches. The general colour is brown above, with small white spots on the feathers, and greyish below, with darker striations on the front. These little birds are known to range in the breeding season even as far north as the Arétic regions, migrating to the West Indies, Central and South America, even to Buenos Ayres in the winter. They have been obtained as stragglers in the British Isles. Of almost the same size as the foregoing is the com- mon Sanderling (Calidris arenaria), which will readily be distinguished by the absence of the hind-toe. _ This species, like the turnstone, is remarkable for its great range. It is known to breed throughout almost the whole Arétic distri€t, migrating to S. Africa, Asia and some of the Pacific Islands, in the Old World, and to Chili and Buenos Ayres in the New. The bird is readily recognisable not only by the ab- sence of the hind toe, but by its prevailing white plumage, the upper surface being, however, marked by a rufous 278 TIMEHRI. tint, mixed with black and white in the summer. In the. winter plumage, this is replaced by ashy grey. The Sanderling does not appear to be a common bird here, as it is but rarely met with. Much larger than the Sanderling is the Knot or Red- breasted Sandpiper (Trznga canutus) which attains a length of 10 inches, the slender bill being 1} inch, The bill and feet are black. The upper surface is ashy, marked with blotches of white, black and rufous, The under surface is of a bright chestnut. In the winter dress, the birds are ashy above and white below. As will have been gathered from the description, these birds are of very variable plumage according to the season. In the colony they are of rare occurrence. They are much more common in the Old World, where they are known to migrate as far south as Australia and New Zealand. They are known to breed in the extreme Arétic regions. Of about the same size (8 inches) as the Sanderling, is the Common Spotted Sandlark, Sandpiper or “ Nit” (Tringotdes macularius), which will be met with by the waterside throughout almost the whole colony, more especially on the mud-flats and sand-banks. They are migrants from the North, whither they resort for the breeding season, but many remain throughout the year with us, The beak of this species is thin and slender, a little longer than the head, and, like the feet, of a green- ish yellow colour. The upper surface is of a dark brown with faint greenish tints; the under parts are white, thickly marked with small brown spots. The spots are fewer on the hinder parts. Much smaller than all the others of its group is the MIGRATORY BIRDS IN BRITISH GUIANA. 279 little Peep, or WILSON’S Sandpiper (Ereunetes pusil- lus), which in general plumage is much like the preceding species. Its length, however, is only about 5 inches, and this will easily serve to separate the two. The beak is slightly more than 4 inch in length, while the under surface is much less spotted than in the common Nit. The preceding may be said to include all the common migrants that are likely to be met with. Although no detailed descriptions are given of them, sufficient of their charaéters are stated for their ready identification; and it is to be hoped that incomplete as is the account, it will lead to a better knowledge locally of these interest- ing forms. Series of specimens of many of the species are greatly needed for the local Museum ; and accurate records of migration and detailed observations would thoroughly repay the time and trouble entailed. | Except where stated, the classification and nomen- clature are based on SALVIN’S List of the Birds of British Guiana. NN A Literary Half-Hour. By W. Alleyne Ireland. Come, and take a choice of all my library ; And so beguile thy sorrow. Titus ANDRONICUS, T the present time when life possesses so much that is irksome and irritating and when, day by day, the struggle for existence becomes sharper and more fierce, it is of the highest importance that we should knowhow torelieve our minds from the unhealthy tension of over application to business, and to forget, if only for a short time, the worries and cares of our daily lot. There is no more certain way of achieving this than by cultivating a taste for reading To spend an hour or two each day in the congenial companionship of books—those gentle friends that do not argue or contradiét—is as potent a charm to drive away sorrow as a draught of magic nepenthe. Here is a fragment from BRYAN WALLER PROCTER that expresses in the most delicate way the joys of the book-lover :— All round the room my silent servants wait— My friends in every season, bright and dim Angels and seraphim Come down and murmur to me, sweet and low, And spirits of the skies all come and go Early and late; From the old world’s divine and distant date, From the sublimer few, Down to the poet who but yester-eve Sang sweet and made us grieve. There is a fine suggestiveness in the lastline. The grief that the poet inspires us with is the grief that driyes out A LITERARY HALF-Hour. 281 our sorrow when we are too sad to be moved by aught else than a sympathy for others. There is a passage from the Prologue to CHAUCER’S ‘ Legende of Goode Women’ that is as cooling as a draught of iced water, and which seems to carry with it the sweet caressing breath of a spring day at home when winter has been finally routed and the rich smell of the new-born verdure is in the air :— On bokes for to rede I me delyte, * * * * * * So hertely, that ther is game noon That from my bokes maketh me to goon, But yt be seldome on the holy day, Save, ceteynly, whan that the monethe of May Is comen, and that I here the foules synge, And that the floures gynnen for to sprynge, Farwel my boke and my devocion ! What we want here in the tropics is to read something, on very hot days, that will make us feel cool. There is a charming sketch in JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL’s ‘ My Study Windows’ called ‘ A good Word for Winter’ which calls to the mind the rich, luxurious silence of falling snow, the brisk sharp ring of skates on the ice, and all the pleasant comforts of Christmas. Who has not felt the sensation described by WORDS- WORTH ?— How touching, when at midnight, sweep Snow muffled winds, and all is dark, To hear,—and sink again tosleep! I sometimes feel inclined to endorse the sentiment expressed in the well-known lines of CHAUCER :— For out of old fieldes as men saithe, Cometh al this new corne fro yere to yere And out of old bookes, in good faithe, Cometh al this new science that men lere. NN2 282 TIMEHRI. When the modern novel palls on us and t-he reading of modern philosophy seems to land us in a, sea of doubts and uncertainties, we find it infinitely ref reshing to turn to older works and enjoy here and there ‘a page of past wisdom. Among the older writers M‘ONTAIGNE is a great favourite of mine. There is a delightful egotism in his writing that is in fine contrast. to the repulsive egotism of ROUSSEAU. I open my MONTAIGNE at ranciom to seek confirmation of my good opinion of him, and at the first glance I find this naive passage :— “Tf in reading I fortune to meet with any difficult points, I fret not myself about them, but after have given them a charge or two, I leave them as I found them, I should loose both time and myself, for I have a skipping wit.” There is a quaintness about MONTAIGNE that is most entertaining. One day he went out for a ride and on his return was met ‘by some of his servants, He thus des- cribes an accident that occurred owing to the rashness of one of his men :— “One of my men (a strong sturdy fellow), mounted upon a young strong-headed horse, and that had a despe- rate hard mouth, fresh, lusty and in breath, to show his courage, and to out-goe his fellowes, fortuned with might and maine to set spurres unto him and giving him the bridle, to core right into the path where I was, and as a COLOSSUS with his weight riding over me and my nag, that were botb very little, he overthrew us both, and made us fall with our heeles upward: so that the nag lay astonied in one place, and I in a trance gro- veling on the ground ten or twelve paces wide of him.” A LITERARY HALF-HOuR. 283 How well we all know the nag ‘ with the desperate hard mouth’! I have been much amused by a passage in the in- trodu€tion to a colleétion of BRET HARTE’S Works, in which the writer, the Rev. J. MONTESQUIEU BELLEW speaks in the most contemptuous terms of BURTON'S ‘ Anatomy of Melancholy,’ He says that he hopes those who read such funereal stuff are only those blighted beings who are the viétims of love or indigestion. Although I cannot say, as,Dr. JOHNSON did, that BurToN’s Anatomy of Melancholy is the only book that ever took me out of bed two hours sooner than I wished to rise, yet I have found it an excellent companion for odd half-hours. To take an example. In his long discourse on Love-Melancholy, BURTON speaks of the artificial allurements used by maids to win the heart of a swain. ““Many allurements there are, nods, jests, winks, smiles, wrestlings, tokens, favours, symbols, letters, val- entines, etc. For which cause belike, GODEFRIDUS would not have women learn to write. Many such provoca- tions are used when they come in presence, they will and they will not, ‘© Yet as she went full often looked behind, And many poor excuses did she find 3929 To linger by the way. Surely nothing very dismal in this! However, as the Rev. BELLEW himself says, ‘Certes, these things are matters of taste.’ | The English essayists constitute in themselves a wide field for profitable enjoyment, In HAZLITT’S works you can find matter to suit your every mood, 284 TIMEHRI. eT If your neighbour is cantankerous and you have no one to whom you can tell the tale of his contentiousness, which you have no doubt, ‘ learn’d and conn’d by rote’ turn up HAZLITT’s essay ‘On Disagreeable People’ and you will find sympathy, and then read his letter to WILLIAM GIFFORD, Esq., and you will feel as though you could annihilate your enemy with a stroke of your pen. All HAZLITT’S essays bearing on subjeéts conneéted with our daily life are of surpassing interest, and pregnant with clear good sense and acute judgment. Among my favourites are ‘The Condué& of Life,’ ‘ The Spirit of Obligations,’ ‘Effeminacy of Charaéter,’ ‘People with One Idea,’ ‘ Vulgarity and Affeétation’ and ‘ Living to One’s Self.’ The last of these is one of the most beautiful essays that English literature can boast of. Lams and Le&iGH HunrT are both writers that one can welcome as intimate companions of solitude. Of DE QUINCEY, whose strange life so wonderfully told in his English Opium Eater is known to all lovers of books, I can only say, that he has furnished me with some of the greatest intelle€tual treats that | have known. What a picture of Oriental solemnity is painted in these few words taken from ‘The Daughter of Leba- non’! “ Damascus, first-born of cities, Om e/ Denta, mother of generations, that wast before ABRAHAM, that wast betore the Pyramids! what sounds are those that, from a postern gate, looking eastwards over secret paths that wind away to the far distant desert, break the solemn silence of an oriental night ?” As one reads he feels the heavy starlit silence of the A LITERARY HALF-Hour. 285 Great Eastern City—he sees the thick white walls that cast a deeper shadow in the deserted streets and which hide from the gaze of strangers the dark-eyed beauties of Syria, In a few hours the streets will be full of the passionate life of a passionate race and the loud cry of the traffickers will hang echoless in the stifling heat, but now the city is dead and all the tragedy and comedy of to-morrow is lying unborn in the embrace of ‘ Sleep, silence’ child, sweet father of soft rest.’ There are many drawbacks in this Colony to the com- plete enjoyment of literary pursuits. The houses being all windows and doors there is no such thing as perfeét seclusion. There is no shutting one’s self up in a snug library and closing the door against all noise andintrusion. Yet, indeed, this is not always attainable even in the Old Country. We all remember reading of the awful suffer- ings of CARLYLE at Cheyne Row owing to painters, carpenters and the ‘ accursed pianoforte next door.’ I think everyone should have one book as a constant pocket companion. ‘Whenever I go for a day from my abode, I carry a copy of OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES’S “ Autocrat” or of his “ Professor.” They are the most companionable of all books. Open them where you will there is sure to be some quaint thought on the page, some line that will appeal to you and awaken responsive echoes in your mind. My small copy of “ The Autocrat’’ always opens in my hand at the same page, through long use. It is at the ” where the writer poem called ‘“‘ Latter-day Warnings, expresses his ideas of the time when the Millennium will come :— 286 TIMEHRI. When legislators keep the law, When banks dispense with bolts and locks, When berries, whortle—rasp—and straw— Grow bigger downwards in the box— * * * * * When lawyers take what they would give, And doétors give what they would take,— When city fathers eat to live, Save when they fast for conscience sake,— * * * * ¥ * When Cuba’s weeds have quite forgot The power of suction to resist, And claret-bottles harbour not , Such dimples as would hold your fist * 7 * * * * Till then let Cumming blaze away, And Miller’s saints blow up the globe; But when you see that blessed day, Then order your ascension robe! I believe that very little Poetry is readin the Colony. It is a great pity that this should be so. Prose writing, however fine, cannot always give the mind the feeling of relaxation that is so grateful after a day’s toil. Fition excites ; Biography is apt to become wearisome ; History requires concentration ; but Poetry will furnish you with just the necessary amount of interest to enable you to go on reading or to give yourself up to sweet fan- cies—as you may feel inclined. You do not feel bound to finish a poem nor even a verse; one phrase, nay, one line, may furnish you with an excuse to lay down your book for a few minutes and enjoy a pleasant picture called to life from the great stores of memory by some thought aptly put or some scene briefly sketched. Without undervaluing other forms of Poetry, I must confess a preference for the Sonnet. A LITERARY HALF-Hour. 287 It embodies only one idea or central thought, and consists of only fourteen lines. But what a wealth of grace and sweetness is sometimes found in so small a compass !|— RICHARD WATSON GILDER has written a Sonnet on a Sonnet :— What is a Sonnet? ’Tis the pearly shell That murmurs of the far-off murmuring sea ; A precious jewel carved most curiously: It is a little pifture painted well.” Nearly all the great poets have written Sonnets, and at the present day WILLIAM WATSON stands at the head of all writers of this form of verse. I quote here a favourite Sonnet of mine written by SPENSER :— Mark when she smiles with amiable cheer, And tell me whereto can you liken it, When on each eyelid sweetly do appear An hundred Graces as in shade to sit. Likest it seemeth, in my simple wit, Unto the fair sunshine in a summer’s day, That when a dreadful storm away is flit, Through the broad world doth spread his goodly ray; At sight whereof, each bird that sits on spray, And every beast that to his den was fled, Comes forth afresh out of their late dismay, And to the light lift up their drooping head. So my storm-beaten heart likewise is cheered With that sunshine, when cloudy looks are cleared, A propos of the subjeét of these hasty notes, written in odd moments from day to day, could we not form a Literary Society here? There are amongst us men of wide reading who would be quite able to give the necessary impetus to such a movement. 00 288 TIMEHRI. What an advantage such an Institution would be! Will any of our well-known literary friends come for- ward with a suggestion ? JOHN LYLE wrote inthe sixteenthcentury “. . far more seemely were it for thee to have thy Studie full of Bookes, than thy Purses full of Money.” Seeing how few of us can have our § Purses full of Money’ let us at least try and have our ‘ Studies full of Bookes.’ Tobacco Cultivation and Manufacture. PRIZE ESSAY. By H. B. Van Ree. ry MONG the several produéts which might tend to increase the resources of this Colony and mate- #8 tially add to its financial welfare, tobacco may claim special attention. Its production being accomplished by a comparatively small outlay and resulting in large profits, every farmer or small capitalist is in a position to undertake its growth ; in faét a couple of acres in tobacco will prove an inter- esting experiment, if cultivated on a Sugar, Cocoa, or Coffee estate. It has always been held that the successful cultivation of tobacco is hampered by the difficulty or impossibility of curing it satisfa€torily. This is an erroneous opinion. The writer has in his possession a certificate as evidence of tobacco of his own growing and curing having fetched the first prize at the Surinam Exhibition, held from 27 Otober up to 14 November, 1876. With the continual increasing taste for smoking, and the high prices paid for tobacco and its preparations, the grower will find a ready market for his produce. This Essay is intended to explain in a concise manner, the successful growing and curing of this most useful plant. Sotl for the growth of Tobacco. This should be a dry, light, rich soil, brown grey in colour, or, a dry rich sandy loam, The land must be 002 290 TIMEHRI. well prote&ted from high winds, well drained, and well manured, z.e., land on which the manure is mixed in such a manner with the soil, as to make the whole one homogeneous mass, leaving no visible trace of the manure. Care should be taken not to use stable manure ; this manure however old and well rot- ted it may be, will still give a disagreeable scent and taste to the tobacco, making it totally unfit for the market. The following will be found a suitable manure for - the purpose, viz. :— Sulph. Ammonia ... ace oa vee 2 parts, Nitr. of Potassium ... AB: ate de WALES Sugar oP see we ves Sa a ewe Well mixed together ; dissolve fifty grains in one gallon of water, and water the plants thrice, or at least twice weekly. March and November are the months for making nursery and sowing. Nursery. Bush must be cut down and burned after being well dried, and the soil cleared of all roots and well har- rowed, so as to receive the seed properly ; further, lay bushes (fagots) round the nursery for proteétion of plants against high winds. Two tablespoonfuls of seed, mixed with half a gallon of ashes or fine sand, and sown on four square roods of land will give a sufficient number of plants for ten acres. The place sown must be covered with light bush or Straw until the seeds spring which will take place in from ten to fifteen days. Plants will start soon after, and TosBacco CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURE. 20! in from four to five weeks be ready for transplanting, Keep the weeds out and water the nursery occasionally if necessary. When the largest leaves are from 3-4 in. long, it is time for transplanting to the field, if the weather is warm. It is sometimes necessary to sow seed at intervals of fifteen days in order to have young plants ready for supplying the field when required. Approximate estimate of expenditure on ten acres of land planted in tobacco up to its shipment. Nature of Work. Underbrushing and cutting down bush ... na wd 76 80 Burning, clearing, removing stumps and forking ... aa II2 00 Digging of 4 feet drains 3 shovels wa’ aoe Bee 14 40 Digging small drains 2 shovels ... a ay AC 60 00 Making nursery and sowing seed aoe ee iss 2 40 Attending nursery for 30 days ... +e aus set 14 40 Making of 36,000 heaps oa a ck vee 144 40 Transport of plants to spot and planting same... ss 85 00 Collecting of bushes (fagots) and conveying to protect plants against high winds ... =. ane age 15 00 Priming and topping plants... + 8 00 Weeding, moulding, suckering, ridding ks of ereigias during 85—90 days ise se zen a 499 20 (Which last expense can be made eek less by raising a good stock of turkeys; these fowls feed upon and care- fully pick-off the caterpillars with no injury to the leaves of the tobacco ) Reaping of tobacco... Bre es wos ves 16 0o Transport of crop to barn and attending for 30 days “ea 72 00 Assorting tobacco, making up in heads (manoques. and fermenting same ... os “ne cee Ss 88 00 Contingencies and unforseen expenses... sr oad 50 oo $1,257 60 492 TIMEHRi. 60 to 65 days after 1st crop—2nd crop :— Nature of Work. Weeding, moulding, suckering and ridding plants of cater- pillars... aes ae ete eas ons 360 54 Reaping tobacco xe eas ves eee Gis 12 00 To transport of crop to Barn, as previously ae eee 48 00 » assorting Tobacco, making up in heads (manoques), and fermenting same... or oe eas 60 00 » Contingencies and unforeseen expenditure ... re 35 00 $ SIS 54 60 to 65 days after 2nd Crop.—grd Crop :— Nature of Work, Weeding, moulding, suckering, and ridding plants of cater- pillars... at es ace oy $ 360 54 Reaping tobacoo ae vss tee an nse 7 50 Transport of crop to Barn, as previously aus ade 25 00 Assorting tobacco, making up in heads (manoques), and fermenting same Ke aes aaa ans 40 00 Contingencies and unforeseen expences ... exc ese 25 00 $ 458 04 Cost of eighteen casks to contain one thousand pounds each, with cost of packing and conveyance to the market...$ go 00 ee General Expenditure on Ten Acres of Land grown in Tobacco, ist Crop nak oat oe aa «-$ 1,257 60 and do, ane we see sea exe 515 54 3rd_ do. ee Bn meh ane one 458 04 Packages, &c. mas sep nas oon 90 00 $ 2,321 18 Return of Ten Acres of Land grown in Tobacco, 1st Crop. 3,600 plants topped nine leaves to each plant, at 36 leaves to a pound, yield’... «+s 9,000 Ibs, 2nd Crop. 3,600 plants topped six leaves, as previously ... 6,000 lbs. grd Crop. 3,600 plants topped three leaves, as previously... 3,000 Ibs. Total Return... «+.18,000 lbs, of Tobacco, TOBACCO CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURE. 203 At 25 cents per lb. this would give a profit on estimated expenditure of $2,178 82. N.B.—No drainage, kokers, tobacco house, nor Manager's salary included. Planting of the Tobacco. The most suitable distance for the making of heaps, for transplanting the growing plants, is three feet apart. After the Tobacco is transplanted in the field, as often as it is weeded, the heaps must be loosened and plants moulded. Priming is pulling off the leaves from the bottom of the plants. These bottom leaves, up to four or five in num- ber, can be made into common leaf tobacco, or oil (oleum nicotiana) can be extraéted from them, Priming should be carried out to the height of five leaves in moderately rich soil, and topping to save nine leaves. In very rich soil (virgin land) six leaves may be taken from below and twelve left. White Burley Tobacco requires the removal of only 3 to 4 leaves. Priming, topping and suckering or removing side shoots, should be carried on when the weather is fine and when no dew is on the leaves, or rust invariably results, with ipjury to the crop. Topping or pinching the bud must be done as soon as the plants are grown to the full height of 3 to 34 feet. Removing of side shoots or suckering must be attended to as early as possible, and not left till they are grown out, as they will injure the tobacco in its growth as well as in its quality. The tobacco will be ready to cut when the leaves become wrinkled and have changed colour, showing little 204 TIMEHRI. spots or stains (marble-like) and when they will break off short and clean if bent. Drought also causes spots and stains on the tobacco leaves ; these leaves must be removed at once and carried to the scaffold or barn to be prepared for commor leaf tobacco, Cutting or Reaping of Tobacco. This must be undertaken on a fair day and when ro dew is on the leaves. When cut, lay the stalks smoothly on the ground where cut and leave them in the sun to wilt for two hours, now and then turning them, until they can be handled without tearing or breaking, then transport to the tobacco house. Before taking the tobacco to the scaffold re-examine plants and cleanse all plants of tobacco cut from eggs and caterpillars, which if not removed, hatch, feed upon and destroy the tobacco while drying. The Scaffold or Drogery. Pegging is the best method of curing tobacco and can safely be recommended ; its construction is as follows : Laths of 2 x 3 inches are fixed together (similar to a screen) with wooden pins one foot apart, sharpened at the end and thrust through the stems of the tobacco at a short disiance from the end; the leaves hanging down- ward; this assists the drying of the stem with the result that it is accomplished much sooner. No fire is admissable in curing any sort of tobacco except wrappers and fillers for the making of cigars, and then only by flues. When the plants are sufficiently dried, judging by the stems becoming hard, the leaves may be stripped from TOBACCO CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURE. 295 the stalk ; a damp day is the best for this operation, as the moisture in the air prevents the leaves from crumb- ling. They must be assorted in the following classes :— ist. The best quality and colour. 2nd. That which is inferior. grd. The ground leaves. Each kind by itself is made into heads (manoques) and is now ready for fermentation. Fermenting of Tobacco. For this purpose is required an airy house or barn. Make a bank in the barn as long as desired, and to the width of two leaves. Lay them point to point or head to head to the height of three feet from the floor. As soon as they are put one upon another and covered, they become hot, sweating in the meanwhile; this is called putting the leaves under press. As only acertain moderate heat for the tobacco in press is required, care should be taken not to have it too hot, lest the Tobacco be burned, in consequence whereof as soon as a strong heat is observed, which can be ascertained by putting the hand between the tobacco, allow them to have air for two hours, thereafter continue just as before, unti] the heat or sweating is over. They sweat more in damp than in fair weather. When rain is falling the windows should be opened on the east-south-east side, closing those on the west- north-west side, taking care when the east-south-east wind is.too strong not to open the windows on that side, lest the leaves dry up and interfere with the fermenting process. The tobacco lying near the top undergoes a natural PPE 296 TIMEHRI. process of fermentation, while that lying near the ground needs assistance. The top and sides must be covered with boards, thereby increasing the pressure and ac- celerating fermentation. If the weather is fair the process of sweating is com- pleted in from ten to fifteen days, otherwise it requires perhaps twice as long. This can be ascertained by putting the hand amongst the tobacco, when it will be found dry and cold. It is preferable however to keep it a few days longer in the press until entirely and well done. During fermentation, any portion on being turned and found to be very damp or burned, should be removed from the lot. Tobacco loses 10 o/o in weight by fermentation, but this process preserves the tobacco and improves its quality. Curing by Flues. Let the tobacco be placed in the barn as soon as cut, and raise the heat in the barn to 85° F. Kindle the fire in the flues every morning, raising the heat the second day to go° F., and continue this for 3, 4,.to 5 days or more until the tobacco has become thoroughly yellow. Ifthe tobacco has been cultivated on very rich land, it is certain to have much sap; in such a case, it is important to .take care not to raise the heat too suddenly, which by forcing the tobacco, will cause sweating and spoil the colour. This sweat, however, can be driven off, but the tobacco will not be as good as if it went through the process without it, When the leaves have assumed a mottled, piebald appearance, raise the heat to 95° or 96° and Jet it remain at that point for two hours, then raise it to 100° TOBACCO CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURE. 297 for 2 or 3 hours, increase to 105° for 2 hours, then to 110° for an hour, after which continue with 2° increasing per hour until 120° is reached. Keep the heat at this point. until the leaves are cured and then raise gradually 165°, which will be quite sufficient to cure stalk and stem without risk. If cured properly, many of the leaves will be of a mahogany. colour or a little paler, while the remainder will run from the bright colour of cedar toa cherry red. Dark shipping tobacco may te cured with flues better than in.any other way. No wood fire but heat with flues is all that is wanted to cure without prejudice to the quality of the tobacco. The first step in curing is called the steaming or yellow- ing process. Tobacco grown in medium or not very rich land will require from 30 to 48 hours’ steaming at about go” F. to yellow it sufficiently, but tobacco from a richer soil, haying more sap, takes a longer time; here the ex- perience of the curer must be his guide. The next step is called fixing the colour. When the tobacco is sufficiently yellow, increase the heat to 95°, this: will not force the tobacco and will prevent sweating, which might redden and spoil the crop. In case of any sweating, however, which should be carefully looked for, open the doors and windows and let these remain open, allowing free ventilation through the barn until all appear- ance of sweating has disappeared. The thermometer will indicate a fall of 1o° more or less, but only a little cooling is advisable. After the disappearance of sweat, closeup the openings and raise the heat to to0® F, | for 2 or 3.hours. Then advance to 105° F. for 2 hours | next raise the heat to 110° for one hour, after which con. PP 2 298 TIMEHRI. . tinue with 2° gradually increasing, watching it carefully until 120° F. is reached. This is the curing process ; the condition of the tobacco often indicates to a skil- ful eye the necessity for a lower or higher temperature. It is safe at the stage of 110° F. to advance 2° every hour up to 120° for medium tobacco; if the tobacco is cured, advance 5° per hour up to 160°, even to 170°, which will be sufficient to cure stalks and stem, without risk. Anything exceeding 170° may cause scorching and spoil the crop. If the tobacco is cured and the weather is too dry to remove it, place green bushes over the floor and sprinkle water over them; if the weather is damp, there will be no necessity for this. It is however of importance to have ready some means beforehand so that the tobacco may be removed next morning. Hlow to raise strong and healthy Tobacco seed for extending Cultivation. Before topping the tobacco, sele&t some strong and healthy plants out of the many in cultivation, which are not subjeét to high winds; take care not to top these, but remove the greater number of leaves from the stem so as to allow them free growth. Leave only three branches on the stem, according to its yrowth; pick off all leaves, especially those growing between the capsules, and when these are brown cut the tops off, hang them in the house until well dried, with the top downward. This gives strong and healthy seed. Packing of Tobacco. White oak or our colony’s Dahly and “ Long John” (having nv odour whatever) are suitable for the packing of tobacco. Tosacco CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURE. 299 There are also many other sorts of wood, having no scent, suitable for this purpose. Whatever kind of wood is used, it must be worked into staves at Jeast three months before, and well dried. Young white oak will do very well for hoops. A cask of 4 ft. high and 32 in. diameter, will contain, when trampled down by the feet, 700 lbs., and on being further pressed, up to 1,000 lbs. nett. Cigar Making. According to the size of the cigars from ? lb. up to 2 lbs. of tobacco is required per hundred. The tobacco having arrived at the fa€tory is first tried by an adept in order to test its quality. Being proved suitable for cigars, it is next assorted according to its colour and its suitability for the different parts of the cigar. The inner part is made of one kind and the inner covering of another; ultimately a third kind completes the outer covering. The Factory. Particles of twine, shreds of wood, etc., and grease and fatty matters must be carefully kept out af the faétory. Rolling Cigars. The inner part of the cigar is made of fillers and wrappers by a less experienced hand than that of the finisher, and put in a mould (which mould is made to suit the cigar form as desired) the outer or last covering of the cigar is put on by a more skilful hand and tested in the mould again; thence it is taken to the Finishing Room. This operation is performed by rolling with a piece of smooth board (made for the purpose) over the cigars, 300 TIMEHRI: Assorting the Cigars. An experienced eye arranges the cigars according to each colour, into Light Brown, Brown, and Dark Brown, Boxing the Cigars. As soon as the cigars are assorted they: are boxed, labelled and sent to | The Drying Room. This is a room of about 12 ft. square, by to ft. or more in height, in which the boxes of cigars are packed up, one upon another round about, with a stove in the centre. No wood fire, or fire of any mineral coal, but only a-charcoal fire (which last gives no smoke); can be allowed for the drying. Kindle the fire every morning, raise the heat to 80° F., keep it at this point: for a: fort- night. or three weeks, until the cigars are sufficiently dried ; this can be ascertained by opening a box of cigars in the Drying room, for which purpose one box only out of the lot can be loosely tacked. Return of ten acres of land grown initobacco :— ist Crop ant ais ond «+» 9,000 Ibs, 2nd do, ae “83 Sor <4; 0,000) 45 grd_ do. ane aoe “6 aus) 3,000) 5s Motalies. ...18,000 lbs, Suitable for Cigar making, 40 o/o... e+» 7,200 Ibs. Balance for Snuff, Chewing and Smoking To: bacco oa ae ++e10,800° 55 18,000 lbs. For making Cigars ctu fe «ss 73200 Ibs, 10 o/o off for Ribs ane ae ave FO ates Balance ... .». 6,480 Ibs. This gives in Cigars :— The 100 Cigars weighing $ lbs, yield 864,000 Cigars, j1/ 1004do, dons: . it Wes nOG) 648,000 ,, 5, . 400) G0; do. LF re ae. 432,000 ,, ssi KOO” 4105 dose {22 a SOs 324,000 ,, TOBACCO CULTIVATION ‘AND MANUFACTURE. 301 Workmanship. According to sizes made, 36:c. to. 40 c.:per hundred. Return of ten acres of land grown in tobacco, st, and, and 3rd crop, 18,000 Ibs. of tebacco :— For Cigar making 30 0/o... ane «+. 6,480. Ibs, » Snuff do. 40/0 «s» 200 lbs. Do, Ribs of Tobacco Saat 7.20Fh 35 O20hs 3, Chewing Tobacco ;, .0/o “te ss0, 4 OO0),3 » Smoking do. 5942 o/o azn 210,000 4, 18,000 Ibs. of tobacco. All tobacco for smoking and snuff making should be moistened previous to cutting or grinding. Imparting of Scent of Flowers to Tobacco. The scent of Orange flowers, Roses, Jasmin, Tuberose, Muscat Roses, &c., can all be easily transferred to tobacco in this way :—Provide a small case with dry papers at the bottom and sides, put in a layer of tobacco leaves 2 in. thick, upon which place a layer of Roses, Orange flowers © or any other; go on in this manner until all are well packed, let them remain for twenty-four hours, then sepa- rate the tobacco from the flowers, after which repeat the process in a like manner 4 or 5 times, more or less, according to the way the tobacco has taken up the scent. If there are plenty of flowers the change can be made every twelve hours instead of twenty-four hours. To preserve tobacco keep /t in closed boxes and in a dry place. Flavouring of Tobacco. This is done by a mixture of Lemon peel, Orange peel, Figs, Coriander seed and Sassafras, equal parts. Elder flowers, Elder berries and Cinnamon, } part each, Salt- petre 2 parts, Salt 3 parts, and Sugar 4 parts, These 302 TIMEHRI. must be steeped in 50 parts of boiling water for twelve hours, and before applying, flavoured with an alcoholic solution of Gum benzoin, mastic and myrrh, equal parts. This gives a flavour to common leaves resembling that of Porto Rico tobacco. N.B.—But to this end the leaves of tobacco must be well dried. How to make Tobacco Oil. Eight to ten Ibs. of tobacco juice from leaves growing next to the ground, mixed with two ounces of Olive oil and boiled together until the juice is entirely boiled away, will give five to six ounces oil of astonishing strength, greenish of colour. Tobacco is also distilled in chemical retorts to Ol. Nicotiana for which purpose no Olive oil is required. Essence of 1 obacco. Ol Nicotiana can also be disti’led, and is useful to arrest bleeding, for fresh wounds, scrofula, tetter, ring-worm, itches, bruises, tumours, bites of mad-dogs, &c., and for removing warts, sciatica and lameness trom horses. Some Notes upon Fly Fishing in British Guiana. By “ Oxon.” a HE Editor of 7zmehrz has been worrying me for some time to write him a paper for his Maga- = zine. He complains, and not without cause, that it becomes increasingly difficult to obtain suitable articles for its pages. Subjeéts of interest in a small colony like this must naturally be restriéted in number. There seems too to be some difference of opinion amongst members of the Society as to what are suitable articles. I once wrote a paper which was published in 7zmehri and which excited some attention ; one critic described it as “splendidly written,” and of course I thought he was a man of sense and taste; another authority said that it was not suitable for the pages of the journal. Some people seem to think that Zzmehrz should only contain solemn articles upon Multitubular boilers or Evaporating processes ; but if one may judge from the engraving which adorns the front of the Journal, the original writings of 7zmehr7z were of a more attraétive charaéter, as monkeys, lizards, mum- mies and grotesque figures are there depicted: asssoci- ated more with natural history than with Sugar-making. Encouraged by the original writers of Z7zmehrz, and braving the wrath of the sugar planters, I am going to venture upon another article, this time a very short one. There have been some interesting papers in the Journal lately dealing with bats, inse€ts and other inhabitants of our colony, so I propose to write upon Fishes and how to catch them, All of us are aware how largely fishing 28 304 TIMEHRI. enters into the occupation of our people; wherever you go you see hundreds of people fishing. On the East Coast you may see thirty people fishing in one place ; and as you travel by the Mail to Berbice, at every trench, every overflow, wherever the bush water is making its way to the sea, there you find men, women and children fishing. All our waters swarm with fish which can be caught with the rudest appliances ; but it is not of fishes as food that I wish to write about, but of fish that afford sport to the Angler. I cannot remember in what book, or newspaper I saw it, but before | came to the colony, | saw some mention of fly fishing in Demerara, so amongst my outfit 1 brought a dozen of FARLOW’S best Salmon Flies. This was nearly a quarter of a century ago, but I have still two of those flies left, and with the other ten I have killed hun- dreds of fish. It was some time after I arrived before I made the acquaintance of any praétical Angler, but since that time I have known many gentlemen in the country who were expert fishermen, and I have also heard many yarns from others as to their prowess with the rod; we have many. ‘‘ Mining Experts” in our midst, but even they are not in it. with the fishermen. In my official travels up the Demerara River I used to whip its upper waters with indifferent success; a few dog fish and an occasional—very occasional—lukananni were all I got, and it was not until the Lama stop-off became a fait accompli, that anything like satisfactory sport was obtained. ‘Iwenty-five years ago fly fishing was virtually unknown in the colony. It is true that the native Indian used to lure out of the waters the golden iukananni, by skimming over the surface a hook to which. FLy FISHING IN BRITISH GUIANA. 305 a small bright feather had been attached ; but this apparently had not suggested fly fishing to any one. Mr. NICHOLSON of Pin. Farm was the first person to introduce me to the cuffum in the Mahaica Creek, when he was successful in landing some fine fish. The next enthusiastic and successful Angler was the late Mr. EXLEY PERCIVAL, who injured his health by exposing himself to the most malarious influences whilst in pursuit of his favourite pastime. Iam indebted to him for some interesting notes upon fish which afford sport to the Angler. It is a curious faét, noticed by all fishermen in the colony, that the fish are gradually becoming educated, and are now much more difficult to catch than aforetime. All readers of “ The Field” are aware how continu- ously this complaint is made of the over-fished rivers in England. Fine tackle, dry flies, and the absolute con- cealment of the Angler’s person, are now requisite if you would kill a dish of trout in the clean English streams ; the fish have become so suspicious of anything like a lure. Here the lukananni and cufium are acquiring simi- lar suspicions, and are much more difficult to capture than they were twenty years agu. Most people think that you have only to throw in your fly and pull outa fish, but this is not so; you must cast as carefully and work as patiently as the English Anglers if you wish to be successful. Let any one who disbelieves this compare the bag made on a fishing excursion by a scientific Angler like Mr. GEORGE BAGOT, with that of one of our city bunglers. The finest fish in the colony for sporting purposes is the cuffum, a large fish of the herring family. My old QQ2 306 TIMEHRI. friend B. J. GODFREY always asserted that it is the same fish as the tarpon which affords such splendid sport in the lagoons of Florida, and I believe he was right. It is a handsome fish, silvery like a salmon, with large scales, and the gamest fish I ever hooked. He has been caught in our rivers and creeks up to twenty pounds in weight, and when hooked he makes some determined rushes; when he finds that he cannot free himself, he makes tremendous leaps into the air, coming down with a splash that makes you tremble for your tackle. The cuffum has a boney palate and the sides of his mouth are like parch- ment, so that it is very difficult to hook him securely; a dozen fish may be touched for one that is landed. He is generally caught with a red and white mackerel or gaudy salmon fly ; but the largest fish are caught with live bait, fishing as you would for pike. As I have said, I have never seen cuffum caught with a rod, more than twenty pounds in weight ; but I once saw a fish five feet in length which was caught in a net off the mouth of the Mahaica Creek. The Lukanannz is a beautiful fish something like our English perch, and is a most excellent fish for the table when fresh caught, unlike the cuffum whichis rather poor and boney. Lukananni are very plentiful in the creeks when the water is running off the Savannahs and the fish are making their way into the rivers. They are caught with a large trout or small salmon fly, and are very game so long as they are running under water or leaping out of it; if however after a few minutes’ play, you can get their heads above water, they open their large mouths and seem to get helpless for a time, and may then be caught in the landing net, so long as the line is not slackened for an FLY FISHING IN BRITISH GUIANA. 307 instant. They are caught from } lb. to six pounds in weight. They are a bold fish, and bite freely, generally taking the fly under water; their mouths are large, so the flies used should not be small, and as the waters of the colony are all dark, it is desirable to work with bright- hued flies. Lukananni bite best from 7 to Io a.m., and from 4 to 6 p.m. ; the cuffum prefers the very early morning and late evening, and may be caught on moonlight nights with an artificial white moth. The best rod for both fish is a short salmon rod witha long tapering salmon line, There are some other kinds of fish which are sometimes caught when you are trying fornobler game. The War- raw, which is a very fair table fish and almost as game asa trout, which it resembles in shape, though its blackish colour compares unfavourably with the speckled beauties of our home streams and lakes. This fish rises freely at a red mackerel fly with most of the white wings cut off, which I imagine they take for the scarlet dragon fly of the colony, and it was after seeing several of these risen at, that I tried this lure. They run very evenly just over 4 lb. each, and rise freely in the early morning in per- fe&ily still water, where no lukananni would stir, if the fly is thrown so as to drop lightly under and close to the sedges on the further bank. The Waéri is an inferior fish of a deep flat shape. It is tolerably game although it does not leap like the three first named fish. It is generally caught with bait but it will take a fly. They are seldom caught over half a pound. The Sum fish will take a rather bright coloured fly in shallow water; a fair fish for the table and handsome, but not very game when hooked ; weighs from 4 to 3 lb. 308 TIMEHRI. The Dog fish is a savage looking pike-like fish, beauti- fully shot with changing colours when fresh out of the water. I have caught a few when fishing for lukananni, and they made a good fight for their size which is rarely } lb. When upon a fishing excursion, as fish in the tropics will not keep more than three or four hours, we ereét a barbacote, and smoke alli the fish we cannot eat at the time. These smoked fish will keep for some weeks, and make excellent soup, or if soaked in water for a short time are good fried in butter. There are some excellent fish caught in the rivers of the interior by the Indians with night lines and spring lines, and by poisoning the water, such as the haimara, the pacu and the low-low; the last named a huge fish, is sometimes caught from fifty to seventy pounds in weight, but these fish are of no use for sporting purposes. A low-low was caught at Chris- tianburg, on the Demerara River in March 1886, which was g ft. long, 4 ft. in girth, fins 13 x 10 inches and width of mouth 18 inches. Cartaback may be caught with a rod and line, if you bait with kneaded bread or paste, and let your bait float on the surface of the water. These fish abound in the Essequibo and Massaruni Rivers and sometimes scale five to six pounds, It is difficult to say when is the best season for fly fishing. In the middle of the dry season when the Savannahs have drained into the creeks, I have always found to be a good time to fish ; when there is too much water the people say “ The fish wa’ak in the Savan.” Cuffum and lukunanni can only be caught in running water, it is no use fishing for them when the water is stagnant. Warraw, Sun fish and Wabri on the other hand seem to prefer the still water. FLY FISHING IN BRITISH GUIANA. 309 A day’s fishing in Demerara would surprise old ISAAC WALTON and his friend Cotton. No walking by pel- lucid streams ruffled by the cool March wind ; the Angler tossing in his hammock is awakened by the roaring of the red howling baboons just as the break of dawn reddens the Eastern skies. After a hasty toilet and a cup of steaming coffee, as soon as there is light enough to see his flies, our fisherman sallies out with his rod to cast his line in the brown waters of the Lama or Maduni, Clad in the lightest garments, his head proteéted from the sun by a wide felt wideawake, he is a prey to innumerable sand flies and mosquitoes which bite and sting at their plea- sure. Before 8 a.m., the fierce horizontal rays of the sun burn his back, arms and hands, so that they become swollen and scarlet, and, refleéted from the water, take the skin off his nose. Still the undaunted sportsman feels indifferent to all these disagreeables, if he hooks a cuffum of ten pounds, and sees the sun sparkling on his silvery scales as he leaps madly in the air, trying to rid himself of the cruel hook embedded in his jaw; or hears the scream of his reel, and feels with a thrill of excitement the mad rush of a 5 Ib. luku- nanni boring its way through the brown water. As in England, fish are capricious ; some days they allow them- selves to be caught with ease, at other times they are sulky or off their feed and refuse the more tempting lure. An expert Angler at a favourable season may easily catch in a day from fifty to eighty fish averaging over 2 lbs. each; at other times with all his efforts he will catch little or nothing. Patience and perseverance is the motto for the Angler here as elsewhere. Up the Cuyuni in 1887. By William Hilhouse. [The following, from MSS. in the Colonial Records, will be found interesting from the light they throw on the work of Mr. HILHOUSE. The account of the expedition up the Cuyuni appears to have been published in the Guiana Chronicle of May 12th, 1837, but as we cannot find a copy of that paper we are unable to discover whether what was published was the same as that given here. The first portion is an extract from an introduGtion to a more finished account than that of the “Journal,” but this MS. does not appear to have been completed. The letters indicate that Mr. HtLtHouse was engaged by Mr. JosEPH PAXTON to colle& orchids and other plants for Chatsworth, and shew that the former was on friendly terms with Sir RoBeErT ScHOMBURGK.—ED. } EXCURSION UP THE CUYUNY RIVER BY WM. HILHOUSE, MARCH, 1837. } A [Pa HIS river not having been hitherto explored from 4 the Coast, and Mr. SCHOMBURGK having se- leéted the Courantyne and Berbice Rivers on his last expedition, I believe contrary to his own judgment, I, though in a very weak state of health, chose the Cuyuni, the course of which was only known by hearsay. I was well aware that the mountains of the interior could only be approached by the rivers issuing from the primary and central ridge, and having before ascertained from Indian domestics who had for many years resided in the Courantyne and Berbice that this was not the case with either of those streams, which had been repeatedly ex- plored by Europeans as far as navigable, I had not thought them worthy of attention. I believe the French have explored to the eastward of these rivers, but the result of their attempt has not yet reached us, Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. ait My first obje& bec ame therefore the filling up of that blank on the Map wh -h exists between the mouth of the Cuyuny and the Missions of the Carony river, so as to give an aétual and tangible idea of that part of the course filled up hitherto in «ll the maps by an imaginary line, with localities not in existence. My second to furnish the Conservatory at Chatsworth with Orchidea of the elevated savannahs of the interior, the noble proprietor having munificently furnished the pecuniary means re- quired. The Cuyuny river is peopled from the mouth to the first falls on the south bank with straggling Caribisce Indians, for the most part refugees from the Missions of the interior. Lazy, drunken and faithless, they are nevertheless the only crew to be got for exploring the upper river. [I found them and the coloured people generally in a state »{ starvation, subsisting solely on the green papaya boiled; not a cake of cassada to be purchased at any rate (price)—they were mere animated skeletons, and on enquiring the cause of all this squalid misery, | found it, strange to say, the result of the Protes- tant Mission established at the confluence of the Massa- roony with the Essequebo, whose first essay at conversion had this melancholy effeét. They had taught religion but not industrious habits, supplying the wants of the Indians without an equivalent return of labour, and by the abolition of feasts and dances, abolishing also that provision of cultivation requisite for the supply of Piworry, their native drink, consumed enormously on such occasions, but the stock of cassada planted for which was always a security from famine. I visited some of the Indian fields and found their cultivation limited to less than a half of RR 312 TIMEHRI. the usual extent, and on my upbraiding them for this negle& I was uniformly answered :—* We are Christians and God will feed both us and our cnildren.” I am happy to say that latterly the Mission at Bartika has improved in its system under the clergyman recently appointed, but its former ill success should be a lesson to those sending out Missionaries, who however pure in intention have not mind enough to perceive the para- mount necessity of establishing in settlements of any description, a good commissariat. JOURNAL OF AN EXPEDITION UP THE CUYUNI RIVER IN MARCH, 1837, BY WILLIAM HILHOUSE. Having long laboured under the most distressing biliary symptoms, which had reduced me to a state of great debility, I resolved this month to try what the air of the mountains would do towards the restoration of my health. This journal may therefore be termed the diary of an invalid, as I made no observations, and took no instruments but a watch and Schmalaalde. I divested myself of every scientific pretension but the colleétion of such granitic orchids as might fall in my way. I reached the Calicoon Creek in Massaroony River on the first of March, and had to return to town for craft and supplies, as I found, notwithstanding the establishment of a Protestant Mission at Bartika, the whole population literally without bread, and it was necessary to proceed loaded with rice, a dilemma to which I had never before been reduced. My illness had now assumed the decided charaéter of dysentry, with which, however, I started on Tuesday, taking up only two hands and a woman, and at Timmerman’s, about two hours up the Cuyuny, engaged five others. On starting next day I found that Timmer- Ue THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 313 man had stowed away two women and two children in addition to my already overloaded craft, and I must either take them or stay. I had no resource so submitted. My crew now consisted of seven men, three women, two children, myself and boy, the women ail Caribisce; I caution all future travellers against a similar one. The Caribisce are at the best proud, filthy and unsteady workmen, but these were half-starved and weakly, and their headman was a member of the Mission who drank his grog stiff in the day and bellowed out prayers and hymns all night to my great annoyance. I found also that the eighth commandment was not a part of his original decalogue nor of his ladies’, especially with regard to the item of rum. JOURNAL COMMENCES Ist day. Wednesday, 16th March. Started at 9, Course W. by N. At to the First Acayu, rapid or fall. At 11 at Sarejataara, the 2nd Fall and a portage. At 12 Twarung. At 1 Ematubboh, called below the Great Fall. At 3 Arcaboora. At 6 Camareea, slept. The dryness of this detail must be very uninteresting, but it is absolutely necessary to give some idea of the course of the river. The epithet Ematubboh signifies a portage or fall that cannot be passed without unloading and hhuling up the craft over the rocks. There are two in this river, one in Courantin and one in Barama. I had this day the assistance of a free man as a labourer, to my great relief, as the Caribisce were weak from hunger and had little idea of facing a fall in so large a craft as mine. We ascended this day fully (1) + 10 + (2 and 3) 15 + (4) 20 + (5) 12 + (6) 20 = 77 feet, a day’s work which I conceive at the outset to have deterred former explorers, RR 2 314 TIMEHRI. for I found to my great surprise that from this to the 18th day’s journey is a virgin river as to its ascent, though I am assured that refugees from the Spanish Missions have descended it—a Mr. or Dr. BURTON, I recolle& as one. At Camareea I found four or five of the Orchidez common in Hobabba Creek, 12 miles from George- town. | 2nd day. Thursday 17th. Dried cargo wetted in the falls and started at 11, Course W. by N. Wokoh or the Posiro mountain right ahead. 13 Wokoh Creek S. shore ; Oerabisce Creek, N. shore. At 44 having crossed to the N. bank slept at the foot of the Suwarima Fall. We made this detour to the righ. to avoid the second Ematubbah by a string of rapids in another channel, one hour's course N. by W. from this. At the toot of Suwa- reima I formed some conception of the rapidity with which the Pacou swims; one was in a basin with two aperatures, the lower one too small for it to escape by, the upper stream rushing down nearly 3 feet perpen- dicular hardly broader than the fish. I reached this whilst calling for an arrow ; the fish sprung up the opening and was 50 feet up the stream ‘in less than half a second ; its flight was barely visible. grd day. Friday rgth. Started a‘ 8. Fall very difficult, about 30 feet but in ledges. Veered again southward and slept at 4 at the Acareema fall ; fine ?acou shooting at this fall. 4th day. Saturday 1gth. Starte at7}. At}2 reached the Tonomoh and at $5 the Paycica and slept there. Passed numerous small rapids this day and had much sport with the fish, Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 318 ‘5th day. Left Payouca at 8. Heavy rain in the night ; Scotch mist in the morning. A few rapids above, after which a large opening—oars and sails—course W, by N. From Camareea to Payouca is a semi-circle by which two large falls in the dire€t course are avoided, and one large and several small falls and rapids substituted for them. I assumed the dire€tion of all the ascents as I found the Indians little acquainted with the power of purchases, and experience had taught me how little they were to be depended on with anything but one of their own bark canoes or woodskins, which two men can carry on their heads with great ease. Former excursions had made me at home in the falls, and I noticed the ease with which they surmounted difficulties that appeared impraéticable, under my direétion ; as- sumed courage and faced the falls nobly whilst 1 was at the bow of the craft. If I left it everything stood still, and if I took a ramble on the rocks in search of plants I was sure on my return to find the corial in statu guo, and the crew gorging themselves with anything at hand in the eating way. All Indians are gluttons, but the Caribisce will out-eat all the other tribes. I must observe that though mechanical knowledge is of great assistance in ascending it is quite useless in des- cending the Falls. Then the quick eye, dexterous hand and unshaken nerve of the Indian are inimitable by any exertion of European science—he who interferes with them in shooting a fall does so to his own destruction. Payouca is 200 feet above the level and 47 miles West from our departure. Several blocks of stone were found here of a bluish tinge and of so fine a grain that we sharpened our cutlasses, axes, knives, &c., upon them, but 316 TIMEHRI. so exceedingly hard that they gave out sparks on the slightest blow with iron. Halted and slept on an island opposite the Sar&ému Creek, N. shore. Here the path sets off to Pomeroon and Wayeena Rivers, and is the same traversed by GULLIFER and SMITH in 1820. It is computed at 5 days journey to the Wayeena by the Indians—equal to 7 or 8 of an European’s. 6th day. Started at 8, caught a loulou of 50 lbs., course W. by N,, still water. At g Warara rapid; at 2 Watoo- pegary rapid, small, but very long. Totonow Creek N. bank at g3. We spoke this day two woodskins loaded with turtle for the coast, and bought 3 days cassada— oars 4 the day ; slept at Watoopegary at 3. qth day. Started at ~ 7, course S. by W., dense fog. At g Copary Creek N. bank, at } to Bayuma Creek S. bank. Here the river clear of islands and 150 yards across. At 2 4 Waycoury fall, long and difficult, rocks like the slope of a glass-house—}4 this day course W. oars, sails—and a good breeze right aft. 8th day. Started at 7; course W. by S., clear of islands. Halted at 4 past g at the foot of the fall Acoreywaught where we unloaded for the 6th time, and halted for the day and night to fish, hunt and dry cargo. The water is here quite black and transparent ; hitherto it had been alternately dark and clear and white and muddy, as it passed through rocky or clayey banks, so that the epithet of a whz¢e river to the Cuyuni is inapplicable from this point upward, all being a dark water. I reckoned this fall 124 miles west of our departure and 220 feet above the level of the sea. gth day. Started att 8—course W. by N. At 9.10 Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 317 Toropaaru Creek from which is the communication with the Puroony Creek in the Massaroony, SMITH and GUL- LIPER’S route in 1820. At to N. by W,, at 11 N. byE.,, at 12 Acha rapid, at one course N. by W., at 3.20 W. by N., at 3 4 Maya creek N. shore, 4 4 course N , 4} course W. by N.,; 5 o'clock halted for the night at lower Arapeera. roth day. Started at 8 $—course W.—river spotted with rocks—z250 yards broad, very shallow—here and there islands, and full of small rapids. At 11.10 Tocro Island, where a white man, most likely a smuggler, is reported to have resided some years since. Halted at Waseema Is!and at 4. 11th day. Started from Waseema at 74—course W. by N. Caught in the night 2 large Parwareema and a very large Pyara. At 10 Soomeyrey fall and rapids, again unloaded. Heavy rapids from hence to Wohmaypongh or the “canoe wrecker” which is the highest fall in the river, 30 feet. Here we unloaded and transported the corial with great difficulty over a portage 300 yards across. I reckon the head of this fall 500 feet above the level and 176 miles (W.) distant from our departure. I must here premise that most of the large falls in this river are preceded and followed by a string of rapids which are all included by the Indians in the appellation of the great fall, to which they are attached. They are of greater altitude often than the fall itselt, as in the present instance, where though I allow only 30 feet for the great fall its rapids make at least 50 feet more ; in all 80 feet. The channel of the river from Soomeyrey lies through black granite with detached upright masses with round 318 TIMEHRI. tops, on which grow stunted bushes and in many in- stances an Onaidium, which is the only Orchideous plant that I have found exclusively attached to the granitic region. Our stages from this point present little variety, being for the most part through still water. 13th day. Started at 6, course W.—8, course N. W.— at 11 Otamungh fall—at 4 Wataweyha—sails and oars. 14th day. Started at 6, course W.—8} course N. W. Kanaima hills ahead—8.10 S.W.—8.20 S. by W.—at 9 the Accaway settlement Lorenzo, being the first habitation we have seen since starting, at the foot of the Kanaina fall. Finding here no bread we left at 12. At 2} had passed the Kanaima falls. S. at 34, halted at the island of Upper Arapeera, which, with the neighbouring islands was full of Quassia amara, being almost the only under- wood, Caught 3 very fine Silures this night, viz. ; a low- low and 2 marepayhas. 15th day. Started at 6—course W.—at 10.7 open river + mile broad—at g Comang Creek S. bank, course N. W.—at 4+ 10 Carapoury Creek, N. shore, where we halted till 3, being the first Caribisce settlement, which is 5 miles inland. Here I procured our first supply of food, viz., cassada, yams and plantains of the finest des- cription. Started at 3.10, course W., and at 5 slept at the foot of the Macabbah rapids. 16th day, Started at 6. At 74 passed the rapids and hoisted sail—course W. At gto, course S. W.—at 94 Eyrecooney Creek, S, bank, where the Spaniards pene- trated in the Patriot war—course W. by S. open river 150 yds. across. At 10,11 course 5. by W.—at 1} course S, W.—at 4 reached Mauricio’s, the second Caribisce settlement on the S, shore, where we slept. It is called Ue THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 319 Unawarooa from a small creek just above. In this day’s progress we had two views of the mountains of Tippoo- rah and Monarocara ; the ridges appear to run S. E. and N. W., and their northern faces seem about 2,000 feet high, the half of which is in an angle of 75° and the lower or debris 45°. They differ in this from the moun- tains of the Massaroony which are perfeétly precipitous on their N. faces, though the rock appears similar, and they are covered with stunted trees to their summits and along them. They terminate at the South bank of the river, nor have I seen any indication of hills worthy the name of Mountains on the North side. At this place I found a prismatic ca€tus, parasitical, with long flower "stalks shooting from the base of the new joints ; I looked in vain for a duplicate. 17th day. Started at 64, course S. W. At 7} course S. by W. —at 25 min. to 9, Coopeyrey Creek, N. shore— at 1o the great sand of Maypuribaud, course S. W.—at 20 m. to’ 12, course W. by N.—At one reached the Accaway settlement of Awara-pooty and slept there— river black—sailed all day. Level 400 feet—distance 268 miles. We found here a bell from one of the deserted mis- sions —a cooloo and a red rumped powis, both common in the Wayeena and Barema rivers. The people of this settlement, except 2 or 3 women, were all up the river at a Piworry feast, we procured however fresh bread and a few yams. 18th day. Started at 6.20, course W. by N.—at 12 m. to 8, course S. W.—at 84 N. W.—at 9 Cateeyu, a Spanish Military post in the Royalist time—g} Corooma Creek, N. shore. The water of this creek is as muddy as that of SS 320 TIMEHRI. the Demerary at Georgetown. Being the lowest direét communication with the Spanish Provinces it was the old route of smugglers, and the Company of soldiers at Cateeyu were as much for the prevention of smuggling as for the prote€tion of the Missions, as it cut off all com- munication with the lower river, which | find fromthe old. Indians was prohibited I have no doubt that from this point upwards the Spanish have good authorities, but there is every reason to believe that the lower part is yet undelineated and as I took no observations must remain so for the present. The course is however un- doubtedly W. by N. on the average, and my distances are far from overrated, oars and sails being frequently used and the descent occupying nearly as much time as the ascent. The Corooma Creek is also famous or infamous as being the scene of the cool blooded murder of the Mis- sionaries of the Carooney who were hunted down and shot by the ruffians employed in this service with relent- less cruelty. All the older inhabitants, both Accaway and Caribisce, above this, were converts of these Mis- sions, and they all agree as to the faét of the Mission- aries being shot in their attempt to escape through the Corouma to Demerary, Such is civil war! The creek was dry and stagnant, the communication being only open during the rains. At 10} Amacaynia where was a great Accaway dance of about 300 people. This being the second day (of the feast) the Piworry was beginning to operate, and when our large square sail— the first seen on these waters—rode right up to the land- ing, they gave a yell of astonishment, As soon as they found however that we were not Spaniards everything in Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 321 the house was lavished on us, and it was not until my crew had imbibed at least a gallon a head that I could get them away, scarcely able to breathe from repletion. These dances are an undoubted symptom of reversion to barbarity. But, it isa substantial proof, even at this date, of the merits of the Missionaries, that they are spoken of universally with feelings of the most affeétionate respe& and regret, whilst their persecutors are held in the utmost abhorrence, and every possible epithet of detesta- tion is coupled with the name of Spaniard, in comparison with whom his Satanic Majesty is held as a Saint, as an Indian very gravely told me :—‘‘ We never knew hunger under the Padres, for though we worked for them our children’s mouths were ever filled with bread and beef.” Indeed, though I found this country comparatively a land of plenty, there is no doubt that animal food is of very precarious supply and that the flocks of cattle in the savannahs, which were regularly killed and served out as rations, made the life of an Indian of the Missions one without care or privation. They endeavour in some measure to supply the loss of beef by raising common fowls, which were plentiful in every settlement at about eighteen pence a couple. At 10% to 1 our course was S. W., when we halted on the N, shore to fish and hunt, being out of meat, but without success, the dancers having swept the bush of game for miles round, for their feast. 1gth day. Started at 64, course S. by W.—at 7} S. by E.—at 5 m. to 9, W. by S.—at 10 m, to 10, after } an hour’s halt, W. 3 S.—5 m. to 11 S. W.—114 W. by S. At 12 reached the mouth of the Coora-Coora Creek, the settlement of the Accaway Provincio, and pitched the SS 2 322 TIMEHRI. tent on a large sand at the base of the hill on which his house stands. . When I found in the course of my progress that health and means were sufficient for a more prolonged excursion than I originally projeéted, I fixed on this creek as the limit, having heard of the high savannah at the head in which I expeéted to Botanize advantageously. Though I went a day further up the river, this creek therefore may be deemed the limit of my excursion, and I made two trips up the creek and over the falls to the savannah in question. It is situated in the range of two branches of the Ekruyekuh mountains, between which the Coora- Coora Creek runs in a succession of unnavigable rapids for at least 20 miles. I consider the savannah 1,500, and the mountains on each side 2,500 feet above the sea, and I was beyond measure astonished to find at this elevation the plants, with two or three exceptions, exa&tly the same as those common to the Demerary sand hills and the alluvial creeks within the influence of the tides and a few miles from the sea. The only pecu- liarity worthy of remark was that plants below purely parasitical (epzphytes) were here growing in whole acres on the bare sands and covering boulders and cliffs of granite without a particle of soil attached. Oncidium and the commonest Orchidia of the creeks below were thus situated, but the more choice specimens were either very scarce or wanting. One Oncidium alone | charac- terise as exclusively granitic, with a long pear-shaped bulb, and a very elegant flower-stem 6 feet high, much resembling O. altissimum, with which it is intermingled in great clumps. This and the cactus I have before described are the only Botanical novelties I have seen Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 323 in the granitic region, greatly to my disappointment. Even the forest trees were similar, only that about here a tree unknown below, with a black heart, called the “Taou ” supersedes the Mora, which was till now the undisputed lord of the forest. After five days’ halt and exploring the creek and the upper settlements I therefore returned. The river had fallen fully four feet and the falls were becoming more and more dangerous. The rains were evidently setting in and | determined on returning. Little interest can be excited by a description of the difficulties attending my return with a crew reduced by desertion to only four hands. It is even infinitely more hazardous than the progress up, but I was prepared for it, and after a descent of 15 days I arrived safe at Calicoon without any mate- rial accident. The Cuyuni river is by no means so picturesque as the Massaroony. The land is nevertheless superior in quality to that of any other river I have yet explored. Hills of a very fertile red sandy clay here and there occur, and these the Indians cultivate to great advantage. None however can compete with the alluvion of the coast. Two crops of ground provisions, and three or four of plantains are the extent of prcduétion, but the crops for these two years are enormous, and they are soon restored. Native cottons I found of the finest quality. The race of Indians are, in stature, appearance and conduét, far superior to any I have seen on the coast. This is solely attributable to the labours of the Missionaries, under whom polygamy was forbidden and those premature sexual conneétions common on the coast also prohibited, The effet is evident in an 324 TIMEHRI. rs ib UM OeRRMISNEO ns imran MOM To ARREST improved race both morally and physically. Humanity must mourn the extin@tion of that system of instruétion which had gone so far in rescuing these children of the forest from natural vice and its consequences. It must indeed have been a noble system when its effeéts, after 20 years of abandonment, are still enduring, for | make no scruple in asserting that the refugee Indians of the Upper Cuyuny are, as were the same class in the Morocco Creek till the heartless negleét of Government ruined the latter, the most moral industrious, good mannered and trustworthy of any free labourers in the Colony, without respeét of country or colour. Of a far different description are those who, preferring the rum of the plantations to the fruits of honest indus- try, have come down the falls and settled in the vicinity of civilization. A total disregard to honour in their dealings, beastly intemperance, with a spice of cant and fanaticism acquired from casual visits to the Mission at Bartika and a few casual visits of. the Missionary to them—thisis the class of people that the protestant mission has to convert and I need not say that the attempt is a hopeless one. I have every wish to see the work of conversion carried on to the utmost, I care not by what sect of Christians so they be such. But as an Indian Mission the Bartika one is a total failure. The Indians of the vicinity are much more depraved than they were before the Mission was established. Famine has driven numbers from their homes to seek a mendicant subsistence on the coast, and Georgetown swarms with Indian women living by prosti- tution. I make no charge against the founders or the acting agent but I insist on it that the first duty of the Missionary amongst the Indians is to promote agricul- Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 225 ture. There will be no religion where there is no bread, and if famine be a natural consequence of the introduc- tion of a Mission it will be a greater curse to the Indians than an Indian Post—a nuisance which I did not believe it possible to surpass. On my arrival in March in Massaroony I saw no fields burning, and what cultivation I saw or heard of was far below the adequate scale. This was not so of old. In February the Indian cut down the bush for his field—in March he burnt the wood on the ground— in April he planted his cassada for the next year’s sup- ply. Not merely the Indians but the free people of colour were in the same predicament—not a cake of cas- sada bread could be bought for any money in either of the three rivers. The Indians and free people in the vicinity of the Protestant Mission were starving—the Indians beyond its reach were revelling in plenty. This fa&t speaks volumes. I bought in Coora-Coora 50 pounds of hard dried cassada bread for a three bit knife. It cost me 6 shillings a day to feed my crew with rice from Georgetown to the Harapeery Creek—z2s. 43d. per diem afterwards with cassada. It would be unfair to infer that because the beginning has been unfortunate the end must necessarily be so also, and common report gives the clergyman now in charge of the Mission a chara€ter of great zeal and worthiness. But it is a melancholy prospeét for the colony to see such a result as the present from freedom, civilization and religious instruction, after so many years of experimental progress. | have added little in this excursion to Geographical or Botanical science. The Yuruary river and its savan- nahs were still five days journey off when | turned back just in time to encounter incessant rain in the Massa- 326 TIMEHRI. roony. But I think the point is determined that the Granitic Region is not the region of Orchideous or indeed any other plants, which only grow there in much less vigour, variety and plenty than in the immediate vicinity of the Coast. It is evident that colonization can never be attempted in this river—the first day’s journey determined that. The only outlet for produce is the Yuruary, Corony and Oro- noque. But, the cottons are of a staple and quality unequalled, though not unknown to me. They would be a most valuable article of commerce, but alas! Dr. HANCOCK himself could never get them down these tremendous falls. The Cuyuny river is therefore a trea- sure that never can be opened—its resources are closed for ever. My expedition it will be seen occupied 20 days in ascending and 14 in descending. In the Massaroony one day of descent equalled three of ascent But I had the breeze right aft in the still waters, and with a very large sail made as much way for several days against the current as I did in returning with it. My longitude of 300 miles West will be found rather under than over the mark, and my computed elevation, correéted by observa- tions in the more dire€t course of the descent, will be found not excessive. The altitude of the mountains is a matter of pure conjeéture ; but it is founded on their char- aéter and appearance, which in all these rivers is so similar, that the debris, the sloping, and the perpendi- cular formation seem to embrace’ one general law of altitude and are the same in all places after passing the ridges of secondary hills. The wind was always either E. or S.E. though the Up THE CuYUNI IN 1837. 324 upper current of clouds was N.E., like the sea breeze. I found no peculiarities in the Zoological department. The channel up is circuitous in order to substitute numerous small rapids for single great falls. There are three portages for the corial itself and six more for the baggage alone, whereas in Massaroony to a similar elevation there is only one portage, viz., at the mouth of the Caboory Creek. I should suppose that a line drawn W. by N. would interseét the average course of the river to the Yuruary, beyond which the Spanish authorities give it a semicircular detour to the South. I can find no traces of any one having preceded me in the survey of the lower part of the river; the truth is few corials are equal to it, and the woodskins or bark canoes of the Indians are so inconvenient to sit in, and carry so small a cargo that few would attempt the ascent in them. The coloured people below are ignorant of the passages after the first day, and the Indians themselves do not know how to manage a large craft. My former habits gave mean advantage that succeeding adventurers will appreciate, to whom I would state that beyond all other rivers the Cuyuny is the most difficult and dan- gerous in the ascent, and should only be attempted with a corial like mine of the very finest description, and with a crew of the native Accaway Indians of the river itself from the upper part, for 1 would not wish my greatest enemy such a crew as | was obliged to put up with, the Caribisce below the falls. Chatsworth, Feb. 2nd, 1838. Sir,—I had much pleasure in receiving your interest- ing letter of December, 1837, and was sorry to learn by TT 328 TIMEHRI. it of your protraéted indisposition. I hope this will find you perfectly restored; I had fully intended to have written to you early in last month, but from numerous pressing engagements I was unable to do so, but being however at length a little relieved I shall proceed to answer your letter in the best manner in my power. The cargo forwarded from the Cuyuni River reached us in good condition. A few species only were damaged, I presume from the splashing of the sea water, this how- ever did not signify much, as most of the kinds had been sent before, except arn Oncidium with flattish, ovate, sharp-edged bulbs ; this I think will probably turn out new and handsome, but there is no appearance of flowers at present; some of the others I consider valuable, but as they have not yet flowered I cannot say more about them. I havetold His Grace the Duke of DEVONSHIRE of your intertion to colle& for the New Store this season ; he is willing for you to draw to the amount of (d/ank.) The following is a list of the named kinds that have been sent here from Demerara, but there is a few others that have not yet flowered which may prove good: Acropera Loddigesii, Batemania Colleyi, Bifrenaria auran- tiaca, Gongora, many good varieties, Coryanthes spe- ciosa, Epidendrum nocturnum, Ep. nocturnum var. latifolium, Ep. hymetrophyllum (imatophyllum), Ep. fragrans, Isochilus lineare, A/axz/laria cristata, Myan- thus barbatus, Ornithidium album, Oncidium Lancea- num, Rodriguezia secunda, Stanhopea grandiflora, Tri- gonidium obtusum. All named above have flowered here except O. Lanceanum; those written in red ink* are the most showy and handsome, any quantity of the * Those in italics, Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 329 latter will be highly valuable at Chatsworth, particularly of Oncidium Lanceanum, Maxillaria cristata, and Cory- anthes speciosa, and the species I before mentioned to you with long drooping rush-like leaves ; it has flowered with Mr. LopDDIGES and is called Maxillaria Steelii; the flowers are large and handsome. We possess two varie- ties of Oncidium Lanceanum, one from Demerara and the other from Surinam, but I am informed that the flowers of the former are much superior to those of the latter both as respeéts size and colour. I am sorry it is so scarce with you. Our method of treating Cryptopodiums is to plant them in broken sandy fibrous peat and pieces of pots, keeping them moderately wet in summer and partially dry in winter ; this system we prefer toany other; although I believe rotten wood to be very good for them, yet I consider fibrous sandy peat and pots better. There is such a similarity between decaying oak bark and wallaba wood that | think it would not be advantageous or even advisable to send any, still I am much obliged by your promise to do so. The Ca€tez you sent reached me safe, and from your description, they will form a new species nearly allied to C. triangularis. We pay great attention to the plants and I am glad to say they are thriving well, so that | hope to have flowers soon. I am much surprised that the long-bulbed Oncidium should grow so fine and produce such long flower scapes on the sterile surface of a granite rock; this is a new feature in Orchidez culture and will probably assist much in treating this one. I have no doubt we shall succeed well with it, for from its appearance, no plant can be in a more prosperous state. I have not had an opportunity TT 2 330 TIMEHRI. of seeing SCHOMBERG’S drawings, but perhaps may do so in a little time. I fancy the Epidendrum you describe with 20 large scarlet blossoms will prove a new Onci- dium, from what I can see of it at present ; of the particu- lars of this I shail inform you hereafter. I am sorry to say your suspicions respeéting Coryanthes by the Sand- bach were too well founded. for when the plants reached Chatsworth there was scarcely a living bulb. This I much regret as they are sovery valuable. Catasetums we have an infinitude of most of the described kinds, so that it is unnecessary to trouble you for more this time. Your remarks respecting the Monaganthus are very interesting; I shall correét the error respeéting the bulbs the first opportunity. The idea of sending out garden pots is very good, but I do not think the advantage of doing so will equal thc expense and trouble; still I will more maturely think the matter over ana act accordingly. We have a plant here of Brassia elongata ; could you procure any of it for us? I had the pleasure of forwarding you by Liverpool two cases, one filled with figs and the other with vines, of the best sorts we could spare ; I hope they have reached you safe before this. I don’t know what vessel they went by as I entrusted them to a friend of mine in Liverpool, but I feel no doubt of their being shipped correétly. Re- spe€ting your account for Mathematical Instruments with Mr. SCHMALDADO of London, I will settle it the first opportunity. You request to know all the Botanical news in England and really I feel at a loss to tell how to answer you. The Botanical, or rather I might say the Horti- cultural World seems occupied chiefly in the cultivation of Orchidezw, indeed such is the rage for them among the Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. 331 few who have colleétions that no price is thought too great to attainthem. Next to Orchidez stand the Pinez or Fir Tribe; these plants are so scarce and so much sought for in England that I have deemed it expedient, and have at this time in agitation, an expedition, to the Western Coast of America, to go out in November for the purpose of introducing a large quantity of this family, the finest kinds being chiefly from there. In this expedition I have decided to send out two competent young men as colle€tors; this I think will be of infinite advantage, and secure such an introduétion of valuable seeds as have not been seen in England for many years. Upon the whole I think a taste for Horticulture is on the increase in England for all seem anxious to possess a collection of plants. Some plants you sent were so damaged that we could not save one. With the large stove I am progressing as fast as can be expected considering the many hindrances that always arise in jobs of such magnitude. In fa& the whole affair appears in such confusion that I cannot attempt to give you any idea of the appearance it will represent when finished, which I hope however to be able to do in about two years. The palms will come safe if planted in tight boxes in sandy soil with sticks of wood nailed across the box to keep the soil about the roots. The box must be glazed on one or two sides like the roof of a hothouse, and while on the passage be exposed to the light as much as possible, but secured from séa water and intense cold. ! am much pleased with and thankful for your remark on Musa, and shall dry the fruit in the way you describe. I have eaten some of it (Writing un- decipherable here.) 322 TIMEHRI. The roots you sent of a species of Passion flower I think will prove quite new, I like them much on account of the interesting foliage ; are the flowers large and hand- some? I am glad to inform you that His Grace the Duke of DEVONSHIRE enjoys good health; he has been some time at Chatsworth and takes an increasing delight in his Garden and Plants. Are there any variety of Suc- culent Plants, Caé&tez, &c., &c., about yours; if so would you send me some? With best wishes for your health, I remain, your very humble servant, JOSEPH PAXTON. P.S.—Theze is a good deal of dishonesty praétised in the Liverpool Docks by Florists and others with newly imported plants of every description. I would suggest that all plants sent here in future be carefully packed in a close secure nailed box. In this manner I am sure the plants would come safe and reach Chatsworth without being subjeét to the pilfering tricks of the above classes, However, to prevent their damaging from want of light, the box or packing-case might have a roof as before described ; two or three panes of glass 6 x 4, let into the roof on one or both sides would admit sufficient light for them during the yoyage. The case sent with vines and figs I should like to have returned filled with such plants, whether Palms, Orchidez or Succulents, that you think will be acceptable here, J. P. WILLIAM HILHOUSE, Esq., Demerara. London, 3 Waterloo Placc, Novr. 3oth, 1839. My dear Sir,—Mr. STUTCHBURY, I have no doubt will have communicated to you my safe arrival in London, Up THE CUYUNI IN 1837. aqA Although we had a stormy passage we had a quick one and landed 35 days after we had left Demerara, in London. I was unfortunately more or less unwell during the whole passage and was really thankful that we made such a quick journey. London was comparatively speaking empty at my arrival; I was rather glad that thus an opportunity was offered to me to pass the first month undisturbed, ang only bent to restore my health. Before I had an opportunity to deliver the letters which you were good enough to give to me for the Duke and Mr, PAXTON, he had heard of my arrival and was good enough to invite me to Chatsworth, where I had the pleasure to deliver your letter. He inquired very kindly after you, and put several times the question whether it was not likely you were to return, which I certainly could not answer. The Duke was very condescending, much more than I ever could have expe€ted, and showed me himself his princely palace, and those famed collec- tions of tropical plants. I was more than surprised when I visited that gigantic conservatory, which occupies an acre of ground, and is in its highest part sixty five feet. The Duke observed that when once ready he intended to drive with his carriage in it, He hopes to have his plants in the course of six months in it. I remained three days in Chatsworth. Mr. PAXTON was very kind and really anxious to hear of you. He appears to stand very high with the Duke and well deserves it, being such an intelligent man. His Orchidez are in most excellent order and in many instances as vigorous as in their native places. I need not tell you that all the Guiana species had come from you. 334 TIMEHRI. I have just made arrangements to publish twelve views taken from sketches in the interior during the late expedi- tions. The Duke of Devonshire, who was pleased with the Sketches and the scenery which they represented, has kindly given permission to have them dedicated to him. Mr. STUTCHBURY will give you a Prospeétus. The sketches are all to be drawn over for displaying every effet, and ACKERMAN has undertaken to publish them. As it is to be done on my expense I would not commence the work until I am secured by the numbers of sub- scribers, and I beg therefore your kind co-operation with my other friends to procure subscribers. I have found in Captain WASHINGTON a most excel- lent man and very kind friend. It appears to me that no person would be more fit for the situation which he occupies. I should be very glad to hear from you and what tour you have sketched out for the next dry season. Believe me, very truly yours, ROBERT H. SCHOMBURGK. The three Indians who came over with me are in excellent health, and not a little astonished at the sights of London—although their faces do not betray it. It is evident, if we consider them endowed with reason, that it must make impressions upon them. WILLIAM HILHOUSE, Esq., Demerara. On the Potaro. By C. A. Lloyd. fy BOUT the middle of last May, I left Georgetown on a trip to the Potaro River and was detained for several days at Bartica Grove, awaiting the chance of a passage in the first Gold Digging boat bound in that dire€tion. While staying at Bartica I was agreeably surprised to observe the change that had taken place in the little town- ship during the last few years. Several new buildings, private as well as public, had been ereéted, the streets were in better repair and in a more cleanly condition, the people I met, orderly and well behaved, and the whole settlement bore altogether a more cheerful mien than it did when I visited it three years ago. It would be hard for anyone to prophesy what the future may have in store for Bartica; the present tiny colle&tion of houses may be but the nucleus of a large and flourishing town in years to come. Certain it is that no better men could have been chosen to look after its welfare than its present Board of Commissioners, and the people of Bartica may feel assured that every effort will be made to secure its advancement. The whole thing however seems to depend on the progress of the Gold Industry—if that fails Bartica is inevitably doomed. On the other hand the opening up of a payable quartz mine on any of the rivers in its neighbourhood would mean sure and certain prosperity. . After waiting patiently for about five days, at last UU 336 TIMEHRI. through the kindness of Mr. H. H. GRANT, I was offered a passage in the Jona, a boat he was taking up to the Potaro Landing with provisions and material for Mr. V. R. CARTER, the officer superintending the making of the new rvad between the Potaro and Konawarook rivers. Bidding adieu to Bartica, I set out on what proved to be the most uncomfortable trip I ever experienced, The time usually allowed for laden boats to make the voyage from Bartica to the Potaro is from seven to eight days, though it has been done in five, but this latter was an exceptionally quick passage. In our case it took the whole of the allotted time (eight days) to accomplish the journey. Our crew was as motley and lazy a crowd as could be picked up anywhere, and consisted of the regulation Boviander Captain and Bowman, five Partamona Indians, a Russian sailor, several black and three coloured men, one of whom was an ex-tailor trom Georgetown and mortally afraid of the falls. Although we had made an early start from Bartica, we camped that night much below Bethany Island, and on spreading our tarpaulin it was found so perforated with holes, as to be hardly of any use should rain fall ; the prospeét of a fair night however induced me to sling my hammock under the trees, This promise was however deceitful, for no sooner had I settled down comfortably and dropped off to sleep, than the rain began to fall heavily, and unfortunately for me, a couple of the men who had tied their hammock ropes over mine had contrived to get well under shelter of the tarpaulin, and were so sound asleep, that finding it impossible to awaken them in time to untie the ropes, I was compelled to leave my ON THE POTARO. 337 hammock to get soaked and seek shelter with the rest under the leaky tent. The consequence was that the remainder of the trip being performed for the most part through rain, I slept in a wet hammock until it was eventually dried by the heat of my body. On the third night out we ran into camp very late at a place infested with winged termites on their ‘‘mar- riage flight,” the air being so clouded with them, that we could hardly open our mouths to speak, but kept moving up and down, brushing them away, as far as possible, with branches, to prevent their getting into our eyes and noses, Besides these annoying pests the ground was alive with swarms of hunting ants, which chasing in their march numbers of cockroaches, crickets and other inseéts, made us take to our hammocks rather hurriedly, and there remain until morning, never daring to place our feet on the ground, From this point nothing further occurred worth record- ing (except continual rain) until we arrived at the Ahara catara€ts, where through the bad management of the crew our boat narrowly escaped being swamped. On a large rock on the right hand side of the inner “haul over” at this fall, there are to be seen three deep boat-shaped grooves, evidently the work of human hands. Some few feet away from these marks, a small portion of the rock has been worn smooth, indicating that it was once resorted to by the Indians for polishing their stone implements. Early on the eighth morning we came in sight of Tumatumari, the first of a series of beautiful cataraéts which culminate in the Kaiteur. The Potaro is without exception the most pi€turesque UU2 338 TIMEHRI. of all the rivers I have seen in British Guiana, but it has been so often described in the pages of this Journal, that I can add nothing new to the picture. I am informed that smiall emeralds have been found in the sand that colleéts in the hollows of the rocks at Tumatumari. Over and against the fall, and perched on a hill, is the Government Gold Station. The Officer in charge re- ceived me most kindly on our arrival, inviting me up to his house for breakfast, and I left the captain to look after the transporting of the load across the portage at the top of the fall, where it was put into another boat. After spending a short time with Mr. SPENCE, I went down to the water-side tc embark and found that our newly acquired boat had a rotten gunwale and that the load was too heavy to admit of the party sitting on top of the tarpaulins, Mr. SPENCE kindly helped us out of the difficulty by lending one of his small boats, also placing at my disposal the services of his captain. Everything being at length arranged, | started from Tumatumari at about one o’clock and reached the Potaro Landing at 7.30 p.m., worn out and tired, having paddled a distance of nine miles against a strong current, and through a soaking rain accompanied by heavy thunder and lightning. The large boat with my baggage came up to the land- ing about half an hour later, and feeling my way in the dark down a slippery path to see after my traps, I dis- covered that my prospeéting bag, containing hammock and blanket, had been foolishly left behind at Tumata- mari, so that I was forced to make a bed for the night on some biscuit boxes at the “ Inflexible’ Gold Mining ail ——e—e ee ON THE POTARO. 339 Company’s Magazine. The next morning as luck would have it the bag turned up in another boat. It had been found on the rocks, where my men had left it, by Mr. SPENCE’S boat hands, and promptly forwarded on. I never expected to see it again, for there were any num- ber of labourers from the Gold-fields about the Station at Tumatamari looking for a passage to Grove, and who would certainly have annexed it, had it fallen into their hands. There are about seventy-five houses, or rather sheds, at the Potaro Landing, the red Neponset covered roofs of which stand pi€turesquely amidst the tail trees. These sheds are mostly used as Magazines for storing the provisions belonging to the different placers aback, and the filthiness of their surroundings is absolutely disgrace- ful, one’s sense of smell being offended by abominable odours wherever he turns. It is a pity that the placer- holders should not compel the men in charge of these Magazines to keep them a little more cleanly. One unpretentious shed is known as the “ Garnett Syndicate Store,” and the man in charge holds the Office of Post Master, for which I am told he receives the large . sum of five dollars, monthly. He has caused the follow- ing sign. to be nailed to a tree :— Potaro Post Office. GARNETT & Co. Potaro Gold Mining Agency. All kinds of ordinary Provisions. Here follows a list of Gold Diggers’ requisites, amongst other things mentioned being spoons, slippers, drawers, shirts, &c. A little removed from the Magazines stands the Church, 340 TIMEHRI. on a hill having a very steep approach from the river. The Revd. F. W. B. DORSET is the resident parson, and he deserves all praise for the energetic manner in which he has laboured to get the Church built and in trying to bring the Indians together. It seems to us a great shame that he and his young wife should be forced to exile themselves in such an out of the way place in the vain endeavour of civilising the Indians.* The hope of teach- ing a Guiana Indian to be of any use to himself and his fellow brothers of the forest, through the present regime adopted by the Church, is about as baseless as anything can be. As far as my observations lead me, the only benefit the Indian has as yet derived from the effort to christianize him, is that he has learnt to steal, indulge in strong drink and wear ill-fitting clothes, which last, if of any use at all,certainly render him a most ridiculous objeét to behold ; in faét the poor fellow is simply spoiled. Truly the breath of civilization is poison to the Aborigine! If some one must be sent among the Indians to civilize them—but I almost think they are better left to themselves—what they require is a pra€tical man accus- tomed to roughing it, who would first of all teach them to live in settled communities, to build proper houses and to cultivate their provision fields systematically, so that they may grow more cassava, &c. than they can consume, and be able to dispose of the surplus profi- tably. Let him teach them some trade, such as boat- building, carpenter’s or joiner’s work, and then find them employment. Such a man would do more good * I have since learnt that the Revd. Dorset has accepted an appoint« ment in the Grenadines, ON THE POTARO. 341 nna for the Indians than hundreds of Missionaries and reli- gious tracts. The need of a medical man in the Potaro is sorely felt and it occurs to me that the Government have been very remiss in not appointing one. There are between three and four thousand men engaged in the gold fields on the Potaro and Konawarook Rivers, and the amount of human suffering there is something shocking. Several instances have come under my notice of men dying from sheer ignorance of the nature of their complaints, and the ex- posure and delay at the waterside while seeking a passage to the Hospital at Bartica. The following two instances of intense suffering may be quoted, which go far towards proving the dire necessity for a Do€tor and a Hospital in the Distriét. A labourer employed on a placer in the Konawarook dislocated his jaw in vomiting, and although he applied for relief to two competent sick nurses, one at the ‘© Hope” placer and the other at ‘ Iron Sides,” they were both afraid of breaking the jaw in attempting to replace it and fully two days elapsed before the poor fellow succeded in obtaining a passage to Bartica. Whether he reached there safely I am unable to say. Again, one of three Indians engaged in droghing provisions to a- placer was taken sick with fever. His companions came to our camp and asked for a dose of fever mixture. Not having any I gave instead 5 grs. of quinine wrapped up in a cigarette paper. For several consecutive morn- ings they kept coming for quinine until our slender stock of the drug was finished. We did not see them again for about a week, when suddenly one morning they re-appeared and asked us to send a couple of our men 342 TIMEHRI. with them to assist in digging a grave for their friend. Taking two of my men with me, I| followed the Indians to their hut and found on arriving there, that the poor fellow was not dead, but had only fainted from pure exhaustion. I did all I could in the way of sending him a small supply of provisions, but as he was so weakened through the lack of proper care and treatment, I have not the slightest doubt that long ere this he must have died. Such are the troukLles borne almost daily in the search for “ Potaro gold.” The Potaro and Konawarook Road, which has just been completed, extends along the line of the principal placers for a distance of fifteen and a half miles, and Mr. V. R. CARTER deserves great credit for the very skilful manner in which he conduéted the work. It ap- pears that a few of the placer holders are somewhat dissatisfied with the windings of the road, but they forget | that these windings were necessary for the purpose of avoiding swamps. I do not see what anyone can find to grumble about, and feel perfeétly satisfied that private enterprise would never have accomplished it. About two miles in from the water-side the road passes through a portion of the forest that has been burnt, The conflagration seems to have been very recent, and its course can easily be traced by the charred and blackened tree trunks. The fire is said to have originated with some gold diggers who halted here to rest one night and left a fre burning, which ignited the forest around for a considerable distance. The place is known as the “ Fire Burn,’’ and extends over two to three acres. Along its whole length the road is interseé&ted by numerous small creeke, over which substantial trestle ON THE POTARO. 343 bridges are thrown, and in places where the ground is low and swampy wooden culverts have been put down, the hollow trunks of old mora trees answering the pur- pose admirably and supplying lasting and ready-made material. It is thought that donkey and mule carts will soon be employed in drawing stores to the placers, but it would be far better if the Spanish mode of transport- ing goods either in “Argenes’”’ or “ Banusters’”’ were adopted. The Potaro is separated from the Konawarook by a fine range of mountains, the highest of which, about one thousand five hundred feet, has been named by the Gold- diggers “ Eagle” mountain, from an Indian legend that it was once the home of a great Eagle which preyed upon women and children. Most of the placers, or at least the principal ones, are situated on the ‘‘Mahdia” Creek and its tributaries. * Mahdia” is an Indian corruption of the English name MARIAH, and was so ealled from the wife of an old Chief who for years resided near by. The gold diggers have further improved upon this word by adding the affix “ana,” and named a smaller branch of the Mahdia, ‘“* Mahdiana.” Very many of the larger placers are now being worked over for the second time, but it is doubtful whether they will be able to hold out much longer. In my opinion Potaro is now seeing its best days, and, should no new paying claims be found, or a mine opened up, I venture to predict that in the next five years Potaro will, like the Puruni, be pra€tically abandoned, There are at present fully a hundred small companies in the Potaro and they are regarded with suspicion by XX 344 TIMEHRI, the larger ones, who designate them ‘‘ Pork knocking” Companies—a very unpoetic name, seemingly derived from their habit of wandering or “ poking and knocking”’ about the bush for the purpose of working other people’s claims on the sly. There is no doubt that a lot of this sort of thing is carried on, and that gold is frequently stolen or smuggled from one placer and sold to another. In the early days of the Gold Industry the ‘* tom” was the only instrument used for washing gold in the colony, but now, since the working of a sluice is thoroughly understood, it is seldom seen except in the possession of some small Company. A sluice consists of a series of long narrow trough-like boxes, fitting into each other telescope-fashion. These boxes are generally from twelve to fourteen feet long by sixteen inches wide, and-iapering to fourteen at the ends. In the bottom of «ach box or * dol” as they are usually called, two riffles (narrow sticks nailed on brac- kets so as to form a rough grating) are placed about a foot apart and in the spaces between them or ‘* checks” the quicksilver that catches the gold is distributed. The first and last boxes respectively are known as the water and waste (or motier) “dols,” the former being a sort of aqueduét, and tae latter passing off the worked sand and gravel into a ong canal or tail-race. The number of men required to work a sluice depends upon the number of boxes of which it is composed, each box requiring two. men to spade, thus if a sluice consists of four boxes there are eight men, and if of five boxes, ten, and so on, with the addition of one and sometimes two men at the tail-race, to keep it from becoming blocked with sand, These, with a foreman and two boys on the ON THE POTARO. 348 top of the sluice, whose duty is to pick out large stones and soften the sand in the “riffles”’ with hay forks, com- plete the crew. There is nothing very scientific about the working of a sluice in this country, the most difficult part lying in the setting of the boxes at a proper grade or angle, but after a few weeks of praétice anyone with a little tact can become proficient in the art. It is very amusing to hear some gold-digging managers brag about the setting of a sluice. Each one thinks his style is the best and is sure to find fault with the way in which those of other men are fixed. They consider it a great feat of engineering skill to set asluice properly, and are very proud to hear any one say that they are good hands at it. The gold digging labourer on the whole would have a happy time of it were it not for the tyranny of those in authority. The name of “ Manager’ applied to some of these men isa misnomer. A good many of them can neither read nor write, and never lose an opportunity of venting their petty spite on their poor labouring brethren. It is a common saying that the white man hates the black, but the bitterest hatred of all exists between black and black, and the gold fields is the place where it is most conspicuous. Something should be done to check the system (or rather want of system) of fines that these “ Managers” impose. | Not long ago a Manager on his departure for town left a hen and eight newly-hatched chickens in charge of a boy, who besides other duties, had to cook for a gang of a hundred men. A day or two after the lad took over XX 2 346 TIMEHRI. his charge, a heavy rain fell, and the chickens were drowned ina small drain. On the Manager’s return the poor boy was fined one dollar each for the chickens, which were not a week old, ana when his order was made up he was paid at the very lowest wage. This is only one of many instances, Like all Guiana forests, that clothing the banks of the Potaro is singularly devoid of showy flowers, nearly all the forest trees having small ones borne at the very summits far out of sight. Those trees belonging to the Natural Orders Lecythacex and Bignontacex are, however, exceptions to the rule, some of them having fairly large and brightly coloured blossoms, but these are only to be seen after they have fallen to the ground in a disorgan- ised condition. Now and again one comes across the large white flowers of the * Coopa” (Clusza sp.) strewn along his path, with their curious sticky discs invariably turned upwards. The gold diggers believe that they are sure to contraét the “ground itch” should they happen to tread on one of these faded flowers. During its younger days the Coopa lives as an epi- phyte, but later it becomes the secret assassin of many a noble Mora, to which tree it appears to have a great liking. The ‘ Bull Tata” or bush Carrion Crow, /dycter A mert- cana, is very fartial to its small seeds, and, with the parrots, seems to be the chief agent in disseminating the species. In the more shaded places where the sunlight faintly struggles through the thick foliage overhead, a curious Calathea with broad oval leaves, marked along their centres with dark spots, as if they had been touched with ON THE Potaro. 247 smutty fingers, and a singular looking grass, Parzana sp., attraét attention. High up the tree trunks the Zebra wild pine, B//ber- gia Zebrina, puts forth its hard stiff leaves, variegated at intervals with wavy bands of purple, having a curious effe€t when seen from below. Strange broad-leaved epiphytal aroids and polypodiums deck the larger branch- es, and growing amongst them here and there the singu- lar ca€tus, Rhipsalis pachytera, dangles its flat, curiously scalloped phyllodes, which often become reddened in places from the effe& of strong light. In swampy hollows where the soil is always reeking with moisture, the long sword-shaped leaves of Spathanthus untlateralts bend in graceful curves across the narrow track, and the bifid-leaved Carludovica Plumieré as it clings fondly to the trunk of some hoary giant, gives the traveller the idea that he gazes on a wonderful climbing member of the palm tribe, but which really belongs to a different order, viz: the Cyclanthacez. The vegetation that springs up on the heaps of “ back sand” in creeks that have been worked for gold, is of a very interesting charaéter, being usually quite different from that of the surrounding forest. Here one sees many familiar coast plants, the common though pretty Silver Fern, Gymnogramma calomelanos, the Watchman plant, Achyranthes aspera, severalspeciesof Desmodium, and Bidens bipinnatus. One can easily imagine their seeds sticking to the flannel of a labourer or the pyjamas of some gold digging manager, who thus unwittingly transported them from their homes so far away. Several species of Fussixa, Lycopodium cernuum and a pretty little Sianea which is seen nowhere else in the forest, 348 TIMEHRI. grow profusely on the sand heaps, and it is by no means an uncommon thing to meet with a few shrubs of the pleasantly flavoured “ Marivirrie” pepper. Wonderful downy-leaved Me/astomacex, prickly Solanums, and the Guana’s tail, or ‘‘ Wait-a-bit ” bush A7:mosa myriandena, form the bulk of the vegetation, making it almost impos- sible to walk in some places without tearing one’s clothes. In the clearings around the gold-diggers’ camps, a species of Sida very like S. rhombifolia, the sweet broom, Scoparia dulcis, the leaf-of-life, Bryophyllum Calycinum and the “ half-a-bit’”’ or “ himara scales” Bey- richia scutellarotdes—a tiny Scrophularia—are all com- mon plants; this last is said to be a powerful emetic. Side by side with this wild vegetation, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, plantains, peppers (capsicums), guinea-pepper, (Amomum Granum-paradisi), yams, pine apples, sugar canes and limes are cultivated, giving an air of homeli- ness and comfort to many camps which they really do not possess. The principal forest trees of Potaro are mora, dackama, kakarally, monkey-pot and wallaba, but crabwood, purple heart, silverbally and greenheart, are also to be found in several places. There seem to be two sorts of crabwood and silver- bally. Of the former, one kind is called “ bull-fore- head” crabwood and is generally avoided by axemen and sawyers, as being very much harder than the common kind. The wood is very difficult to saw into planks, dulling the cross-cut saws and often breaking the axes, when felling. It is distinguished from the common crab- wood, Carapa Guianensis, by large protruding excres- cences on the trunk. ON THE POTARO. 349 Besides the silverbally proper, there is another kind known as “ wallaba gale” silverbally, which we are told literally means wallaba barked silverbally—the word “ gale” signifying bark or skin. The wood of this tree is very hard and pretty, being of a light straw colour, with silvery streaks (the medullary rays) running through it. The leaves of the two trees differ considerably, and one of them (we forget which) exhales a very pleasant odour when freshly cut. Towering above every other tree, even over the stately mora of WATERTON, the purple heart (Copaifera pubt- fiora) spreads its crown of finely divided leaves to the scorching sun. From the bark of the purple heart the Indian fashions his frail wood-skin canoe, in which he and his family travel from one part of the Colony to the other, safely and apparently in comfort. The wood is exceed- ingly hard and tough. Had the ancients been acquainted with this tree, its straight cylindrical stems would have furnished them with excellent beams for their battering-rams and other en- gines of war. In temperate countries the gorgeousness of the woods in autumn is due to the he€tic flush of death, in Guiana on the contrary it is the freshness and vigour of health that decks the leafy landscape in gay attire, and our forests throughout the year can present patches of colour unsurpassed by anything out of the tropics. To say nothing of the various shades of pink and red with which the young leaves of some of our trees are dyed, we do not think that nature has ever painted in any part of the world a more brilliant obje&t than a tree I saw near the Ouruwa cataraéts on the Rupununi river. It was about 350 _TIMEHRL. 60 feet high, a perfeét pyramid in shape and one dense mass of golden flowers from top to bottom. In the back- ground were some palms (Af¢talea sp.) whose gracefully arching fronds, illuminated by the setting sun, completed a picture we shall always remember. The tree was of the Bignonia family but to what genus it belonged I am unable to say. A mora just bursting into leaf, and some of the Pachiras, whose young leaves hang in lambent tresses from the extremities of the branches, like bunches of fly-paper are as unique and pretty studies in foliage as one can desire. In comparison to the other rivers, the Potaro is very poor in game; except the labba (Celogenys paca) and the ubi- quitous. acourie, which seem to be particularly common, one seldom meets with or sees traces of any other wild animal. A remarkable fa&t conneéted with the distribution of the acourie and its near relative the adourie (Dasy. procta acuchy) is that while the former is found on both banks of the Essequibo River, the latter is only to be obtained on the right bank. The large maam, Zinamus subcristatus, which is so commonly found in other parts of the Colony, is rather scarce in Potaro, and only on rare occasions does its mournful cry come wafted on the evening breeze. Trum- pet birds or ‘“‘warracabbas” (Psophia crepitans) are often met with, and one day I came across a very large flock while rambling in the bush, but not having a gun with me they went by unmolested. There is a second distinét species, or a well-marked variety, of this bird occurring in the Potaro. Unfortunately the one I saw had been shot by an Indian, who brought it to me partly ON THE POTARO. 351 plucked and eviscerated, so that I was unable to note the sex. It differs from the common species in having stout green, instead of slender dark slate-coloured legs, and is a trifle larger in the body than the type. The common warracabba lays its eggs in holes in the trunks of trees at a height of from 15 to 20 feet from the ground, One nest I took in the savannah contained seven dirty-white eggs somewhat smaller than those of a fowl. The Indians assert that when the young birds are hatched, the mother takes them one by one in her beak and flies with them down to the ground. Warracabbas, a few maams, and one powise (Crax alector) were the only game birds observed during the whole time of my stay in the Potaro, but I was told that when the balamally tree is in bearing a marudie (Pene- lope species) can be obtained in tolerable numbers as they come to feed on its fruit. The balamally is a soft-wooded tree, the bark of which is often used asa flooring for houses, I met with examples of many of our bright-plumaged birds, the Cotingide and Pipride being well represent- ed. Both the white and yellow headed manikins (Pzpra leucocilla and auricapilla) were very common, and on one ‘occasion a fine specimen of Pipra suavissima flew by within a few feet of where I sat and caught some inse€ts that were crawling on a log. The purple-throated and purple-breasted cotingas are fairly common, and examples of either bird could gene- rally be seen on a morning’s walk along the shaded trails of the gold digger. Ant thrushes are numerous, although seldom seen, owing to their sombre colours and shy habits. Here I saw YY 352 TIMEHRI. for the first time Myrmotherula pygmaa, one of the smallest of the Formicaritde, he was contentedly hop- ping about some creeping vines, but flew away imme- diately as he caught sight of me. The curious cry “ Bull! bull! bull!” of AZyrmeciza ctnnamomea, another of the ant’ thrushes, was constantly heard in the evenings, but I never could get to see the bird, although I tried several times to do so. In the distance the call of this bird sounds very much like the noise a man makes by blowing into his cutlass handle when he is lost in the bush, and some of our men declared that they had frequently been led astray by it. Various species of the Dendrocolaptide, the entire family of which is composed of brown birds, were often seen running up the trees in quest of inseéts and their larvae, on which they feed, and all through the sultry days the shrill reveille of the green-heart bird, Lathrza cinerea, resounded through the dark recesses of the forest with untiring persistence, until one was almost distraéted by the echoes. Both species of our large red-crested woodpeckers are very common, and the noise they make when testing the stability of a tree is a charateristic forest sound. In spiders the Potaro seems to be very rich, and I saw some “‘ feartully and wonderfully made” members of the class. One fellow had a jet-black head and legs, his abdomen being adorned on the back with eight spines disposed as follows: two short ones on either side a little below the point of articulation with the head, two a trifle shorter in the middle, two about a quarter inch long at the end of the abdomen, and two immediately below these a short distance from the very prominent ON. THE POTARO. 353 spinning apparatus. A broad yellow streak extended the whole length of the abdomen, and the texture of the whole body was of a rather hard nature. Some very singular spidery-looking creatures with enormously long legs, one pair extremely attenuated and hair-like, were often seen crawling over the bushes and even in our tent. Their bodies were either brown or yellow, almost round and very small. Specimens that I colleéted and forwarded to the British Museum for identifi- cation, were pronounced by the Arachnologist of that famous institution, not to be true spiders, but to belong to the family Pha/angide or Harvestmen. Very little is known of their habits, and their head quarters seem to be in South America. One evening my men killed a large “ Ting-Ting, Heterophrynus chirocanthus, but I never afterwards saw another specimen. Butterflies, beetles, and a host of other inse€ts were common. The magnificent bright blue Morpho menelaus often glided noiselessly along our trail, dazzling our eyes with its splendour. Low down to the ground, transparent-winged Heter@ were ob- served flitting among the brush-wood and appearing in the subdued gloom of the forest more like the shades of departed butterflies than real living things. The flame of our lamp at night attraéted a strange looking Neuropterous inse€t having very long antenna, which terminated in a club-shaped end with a yellow spot in the middle of the club. Its wings were like those of a dragon-fly with smoky brown refleétions, and black spots on the outer margins, a little below the tips, which were more darkly shaded than the other parts. The inseéts belongs to the genus Ascalaphus and looks YY2 354 TIMEHRI. as if some one had fastened a dragon-fly’s wings to the head and body of a butterfly. A species pf Evania exactly like the form found on the Coast, but having whitish bases to its antenna, a green cockroach, and a fire-fly with brown elytra also visited our midnight lamp regularly. The fire-fly, when held in the dark, emitted a pale bluish light which gave to the part of the hand on which it fell the same ghastly appearance that the ele€&tric arc light gives to any one standing under it. Of beetles, Euchroma (Buprestts) gigantea, the large “ sawman,” (Prionus cervicornis) and the steel blue Pha-= neus lanctfer were by far the most common, The latter could always be obtained in places where there was any putrid or stercoraceous matter. In every nook and corner of the sandy floor of our camp the larve of the ant lion, J7yrmeleon, construéted their small funnel-shaped pits, which we often obliter- ated in order to-see the little creatures excavate new ones. Although the larvze is common both here and on the Puruni river we have seen but few specimens of it in the zmago or perfeét state. A handsome brown and green terrestrial lizard (Ame- iva sp.) is common all over the Potaro distriét, and in some places is so tame that it can almost be captured with the hand. I dug up several of their nests in an old tail-race at the Rhodius Syndicate’s placer on Turtle Creek. Each nest contained from five to six eggs, about an inch long and covered with a tough leathery skin stretched tightly over the contents. Like its cousin the salempenta (Zupinambis nigropunctatus), large speci- mens will sometimes attack young poultry, and one day while we were at breakfast one of them deliberately ON THE POTARO. 385 stalked into the kitchen where some young guinea fowls were being fed and made an attempt to carry one off, but on being pursued by the cook and his assistant, he was made to drop his prey which was picked up gasping its last breath The Gama (Polychrus marmoratus) and another dark brown lizard, marked and spotted with black, and having a greenish stripe down its back, were often observed, The latter would sometimes come into the camp and climb about the thatch on the roof in search of crickets and cockroaches. I saw and killed two venomous snakes during the trip, both labarrias (Trigonocephalus atrox). Several fine specimens of the aboma, (Epicrates cenchria) and one or two large anacondas, or water camoodies (Eunectes murinus) were met with, and our men reported several others, so that snakes may be said to be fairly numerous. No very great variety of fish inhabit the tributary streams of Potaro. The himara (Macrodon trahtra), “ hoorie’”’ and “ yarrow” being the only kinds we saw, but in the river itself pacu (M/yletes asterias) cartaback (Tetragonopterus sp.) the low-low (Piratinga reticulata) and several others are however to be obtained. As the dry season sets in, swarms of cow-flies 7ada- nid@) make their appearance, and with them their hereditary foes the green and black banded sand wasps. An ugly brown earthworm nearly three feet in length, then leaves its burrow in the parched earth and crawls slowly over the pathways in search of moisture. The small creeks dry up almost entirely, or dwindle to tiny streams, the tree fogs utter their hoarse cries less often at nightfall and the wood-ants (Termites) when crossing 356 TIMEHRI. any open space construét tunnels of earthy and vege- table particles to proteét their soft bodies from the heat, which becomes so oppressive as to be hardly bearable even under shelter. After roughing it for about six months in the Potaro Gold-fields, I at last one Sunday bid good bye to the dis- tri€&t. I never recolleét feeling so much pleasure on leaving a place. Nothing can be said against the dis- tri€t itself; it may be a little unhealthy, but it is very picturesque and extremely interesting from a Naturalist’s point of view, in fa& it is a place where it may truly be said that “ every prospeét pleases and orly man is vile.” Early English Colonies in Trinidad. By N. Darnell Davis. JN the 18th of February 1797, Trinidad was taken from Spain by a British Force under Admiral Sir HENRY HARVEY and General Sir (3) RALPH ABERCROMBY.* When the news reached England - that the noble Island had been added to the Empire, the guns at the Tower of London were fired off in honour of the event. 2. An account of the early history of Trinidad, in the Sloane MS. No. 3,662, which is preserved in the British Museum, is herewith printed. It shows that early in the Seventeenth Century, three attempts were made to estab- lish an English colony in that island, but without success. Before taking up that manuscript, it may be well to glance at the Spanish conneétion with the island, and to observe how the place was frequented by English sailors in Elizabethan and Stuart times. S. After its discovery by COLUMBUS in 1408 Trini- dad was left very much to itself by the Spaniards. In 1499, that turbulent Cavalier ALONZO DE OJEDA, with JUAN DE LA COSA and AMERIGO VESPUCCI in his com- * Some account of the taking of Trinidad will be found in the 24th Volume (pp. 181 to 182) of the Naval Chronicle, and in Joseph’s History of Trinidad (pp. t89 to 199). Don Joseph Chacon, the Spanish Governor, was a high minded and brave man. Apodaca, the Spanish Admiral, was a poor creature. Although the story may not be true, that, on Chacon’s saying, “ All is lost!” Apodaca, exclaimed, * Not all, I saved the image of St. James of Compostello the Patron of my ship, and my own!” it seems to indicate the estimation in which Apodaca was held, 358 TIMEHRI. pany, landed at three different placesin the island. Ac- cording to NAVARRETE the natives were Caribs, or cannibals, of fine presence and stature, of great vigour, and very expert in the use of bows and arrows, and shields, which were their proper arms. After becoming satisfied that the Spaniards were friendly, the Indians bartered with them. OJEDA found traces of COLUMBUS’S visit, near the Dragon’s mouth. OJEDA may have met Caribs in Trinidad, or he may have said in his haste that the natives were Caribs; but the evidence seems to favour the view that the Arrawacks were the aboriginal tribe, who were subsequently invaded by Caribs. ROoD- RIGO DE FIGUEROA had a special commission in 1520 to ascertain which were the places inhabited by Caribs, who might be warred against and enslaved. He reported that the islanders of Trinidad were not cannibals, but very quiet people. All the same, these poor Indians were from time to time brutally raided by Spaniards, and were carried off into slavery in other colonies.* 4. In 1541, a sorry sort of craft entered the Gulf of Paria, by the Serpent’s mouth, and, after labouring for several days off the island, at last got out by the Dragon’s mouth. Its ropes were made of grass, and its sails of blankets. On board of it was FRANCISCO ORELLANA, who, after deserting GONZALO PIZARRO, had made a voyage of 2,500 miles down the Amazon to the sea. The brigantine had brought him from the mouth of that great river. He subsequently fetched the island of Cubagua, where, with gold and emeralds picked up “ See the French edition of the Works of Bartholemew de las Casas, Paris 1882. In Vol. I, Article XIII. treats De l'tle de la Trinité et des cétes de Paria et de las Perlas, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 359 on his descent of the Amazon, he bought a vessel and sailed away to Spain. With him went the news of his great discovery. He at the same time spread the tale of the warrior women, for whom he revived the name of Amazons. 5. In 1592, DON ANTONIO DE BERREO Y ORUNA removed from Margarita and settled at Trinidad, the better to carry out his projeét of exploring Guiana. In quest of the rich Empire, he had spent 300,000 ducats. Of him RALEIGH wrote :—** This BERREO isa gent. well descended, and had long served the Spanish King in Millain, Naples, the low Countries and elsewhere, very valiant and liberal, and, a gent. of great assuredness, and ofa great heart.” It was BERREO who founded the town of Saint Joseph, the early capital of theisland. His wife was a niece of the celebrated GONZALES XIMENES DE QUESADA, who founded the New Kingdom of Granada. According to Spanish views, BERREO ‘ conquered’ Trini- dad from the Indians. 6. BERREO was not long left in undisturbed enjoy- ment of his island Kingdom. The English sailors who, in the spacious times of good Queen BEss, did much to break up the Naval Power of Spain, had, even before the failure of the /xvincible Armada, taken their pleasure in the West Indies: smiting the Don with swashing blows. Some of these sea-dogs looked in at Trinidad. As far as possible, in their own words, let us get their impressions of what they saw there, as they have been preserved for us by HAKLUYT of honoured memory. 7. Master ANDREW BARKER, of Bristol, had a score to pay off against the Spaniards, for injuries done at Teneriffe. He determined to himself redress those wrongs. ZZ 360 TIMEHRI. On Whit Sunday, in June 1576, he set out from Plymouth with two Barkes. One of these was the Ragged Staffe, of which BARKER was Captain. The other was the Bear, with WILLIAM COxXE, of Limehouse, as Cap- tain. After touching at the Cape Verde Islands, the freebooters shaped their course ‘over the maine ocean,’ for the West Indies, and arrived ‘happily’ at Trini- dad. They had ‘conference with certaine Indian in- ‘habitants thereof, who gave them very friendly and ‘courteous entertainment.’ During the six days that BARKER’S expedition spent at Trinidad, a pinnace was set up that had been brought out in the Ragged Staffe, and traffic for vi€tuals was held with the Indians. From Trinidad BARKER’S vessels went on to Margarita, where they began the serious business of their voyage by taking a Spanish ship, which had in her ‘ certaine pitch ‘and 30 tuns of Canarie Wines.’ Of the wine, they ‘reserved 4 or 5 tunnes to themselves, dismissing them ‘ without any further damage.’ The voyage was fatal to BARKER, who was killed by the Spaniards in the Bay of Honduras. His men did not return to England until they had done much injury to some of the Spanish settle- ments. 8. In 1593, or 1594, Captain JACOB WHIDDON was sent out by Sir WALTER RALEIGH to gather informa- tion about Guiana. WHIDDON, who was esteemed by his master as ‘a man most honest and valiant,’ visited Trinidad. He was observed by BERREO, with whom he ‘had speech,’ to be inquisitive as to BERREO’S proceed- ings, and as to the country of Guiana. During WHID- DON’S stay at the island, a ship called the Edward Bona- venture, commanded by Captain LANCASTER, and on her EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 361 way from the East Indies, was driven into the Guifof Paria; WHIDDON went ‘toseeke’ her.* In his absence ‘BERREO sent a canoa abord the pinnace onely with /zdzans and dogs, inviting the company to goe with them into the wods to kil a deare, who like wise men in the absence of their Captaine followed the /zdzans, but were no sooner one harquebush shot from the shore, Berreo’s souldiers lying in ambush had them all, notwithstanding that he had given his worde to Captaine Whiddon that they should take water and wood safelie.’ 9. Sir JOHN BURROUGHS is said to have ‘surprised’ a town in Trinidad, in 1594. Sir WILLIAM MONSON, who is the authority for the statement, gives no details. 10. Sir RoBeRT DUDLEY}; being of a bold, adventu- * In 1593, the Edward Bonaventure, on her return from the East Indies, called at Trinidad. Henry May, whose account of Captain James Lancaster’s voyage is preserved by Hakluyt, says :— In the moneth of June we arrived at the island of Trinidad in the West Indies, hoping there to find refreshing; but we could not get any, by reason that the Spaniards had taken it. Here we were imbayed between the island and the maine; and for want of victuals the company would have forsaken the ship; whereupon the Captaine was inforced to sweare every man not to forsake the ship until we should see farther occasion. Out of this bay called Boca de Dragone, it pleased God to deliver us; from whence we directed our course for the Isle of S. Juan de Puerto Rico. + Sir Robert Dudley was Knighted at Cadiz in 1596, by the Earl of Essex. He was a son of Queen Elizabeth’s favourite, the Earl of Leices- ter, and of Lady Sheffield, then a widow. Dudley appears to have proved that his parents had been married before his birth: but after his birth, they married others, as if their own marriage had never taken place. By Leicester’s will, Dudley became, in 1589, the owner of Kenilworth, and other places, He married a sister of Thomas Caven- dish, the circumnavigator. Of the singular career of Sir Robert, a very interesting account is given in the XVItH Volume of the Dictionary of National Biography. ZZ2 362 TIMEHRI. rous spirit, and having large means at his disposal ; pre- pared to set out for the West Indies, ‘without hope there to do anything woorth note.’ He wanted ‘to see some practise and experience, then any wonders or profite.’ On the 6th of November 1594, he sailed from Southampton. His vessels consisted of the Bear, of 200 tons and 140 men, his Admiral ; the Beare’s Whelpe, Vice-Admiral ; and two pinnaces, the Frisking and the Earewig. After touching at Plymouth, they proceeded on their voyage. Stormy weather deprived Sir ROBERT of his three consorts; but, he went on his course. He made many chases of vessels, off the Coast of Spain, only to find that they were English. He spent twelve days at the Canaries, to some purpose, taking two very fine carvels under the calms of Teneriffe and Palma. These, ‘both refreshed and amended his company,’ and increased his fleet to three vessels. Continuing his voyage to the West Indies, he touched at Cape Blanco, and thence shaped his course for Trinidad, where, on the 1st of February 1595, ‘he came to an anker under a point ‘ thereof called Curiapan, in a bay which was very full of ‘pelicans, and he called it Pelicans’ Bay.’ Curiapan, called by CoLUMBuS Punta del Arenul, is now called Hicacos, or Icacos. 11. The Bear afterwards fell down lower, to a place called Paracoa, now known as Cedar Point: which wasa convenient place to water, ballast, ground, and grave the carvels. A sconce, like a half-moon, was thrown up on shore, for prote€tion against the Spaniards, of whom nothing definite could at first be gathered. All the men were then sent ashore. On the 17th of February, the two carvels were sent off EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 363 ‘to try their fortunes in the Indies :’ they being able to ‘do more good’ in the Indies than greater ships. 12. After the carvels had been sent away, only 50 men remained with DUDLEY. Then, he learned that BERREO, the Spanish Governor, had sent off to Marga- ritta, and had got thence 300 soldiers. Thus re-inforced, BERREO sent messengers to DUDLEY ‘in kindnesse.’ The latter, on his part, had no reason to assault the Spaniards, ‘because they were both poor and strong.’ For ‘his experience and pleasure,’ he marched four long marches upon the island: the last being from one side of the island to the other, which was a march of about 50 miles. He and his men went and came through ‘a most monstrous thicke wood (for so is most part of the yland), and lodging in Indian townes.’ DUDLEY gives the following description of Trinidad :—* The country is fertile, and ful of fruits, strange beasts, and foules, where- of munkeis, babions and parats were in great abundance.” About 3 leagues to the eastward of Pelicans’ Bay, a mine of Marcazites was found. The stones ‘glistened like gold (but all is not gold that glistereth), for so they found the same nothing worth, though the Indians did assure them, it was Ca/uort, which signifieth gold with them.’ 13. The natives of the island, who were Arrawacks, DuDLEY described as, ‘a fine-shaped and a gentle feople, al naked and painted red. their commanders wearing crownes of feathers. These people did often resort unto my ship, and brought us hennes, hogs, plantans, potatoes, pinos, tobacco, and many other pretie com- modities. which they exchanged with us for hatchets, knives, hookes, belles and glasse-buttons.’ The Caribs, 364 TIMEHRI. DUDLEY learned here, were § man-eaters or canibals, and great enemies to the islanders of Trinidad.” He made a note of some of the words used by the islanders, with their English meanings: and these are preserved in HAKLUYT. 14. During his stay of thirty-nine days at the island, DUDLEY colleéted information from the ‘ Savages’ about Guiana, and especially of those parts of the ‘ Maine over against Trinidad.’ He sent off his ship’s boat with fourteen men to the Orinoco, to discover a Mine of Gold, of which he was told. After sixteen days’ absence, ‘ making but one night’s aboad anywhere,’ the exploring party re- turned to Trinidad. They brought news, among other things, of a rich nation, that sprinkled their bodies with the ‘poulder of golde, and seemed to be guilt, and farre beyond them a great towne called £7 Dorado, with many things.’ DUDLEY wished to go to Guiana, and see for himself: but his men had suffered such hardships ia their journey of 250 miles, in a rowing boat, that not one man would go with him, albeit, as he says, he had a commision to hang or kill them. 15. While the party were gone to the Orinoco, those who remained at Trinidad were rejoiced at being joined by Captain POPHAM, in ‘a pinnasse of Plymouth.’ If - DUDLEY had not lost his own pinnaces, he says, he and POPHAM would have ‘discovered further the secrets of those places.’ As it was, they stayed on some six or eight days longer for Sir WALTER RALEIGH, who, as they surmised, ‘ had some purpose for this discovery ; to the ende, that by their intelligence and his boates, they might have done some good.’ Sir WALTER did not arrive at Trinidad for some weeks afterwards, so DUDLEY EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 365 and POPHAM re-watered their ships at Paracoa, and set sail from Trinidad, on the 12th of March, ‘to see further of the Indies.’ On the 13th, when 25 leagues to the northward of Granata, they took a small prize of ‘ Sackes,’ which ‘refreshed them well.’ DUDLEY arrived at St. Ives, in Cornwall, at the end of May. In his voyage, he tooke, sunk and burnt nine Spanish ships, ‘ which was losse to them, though I got nothing.’ 16. On the 22nd of March 1595, Sir WALTER Ra- LEIGH, the Founder of England’s Colonial Empire, arrived at Trinidad. With his own ship, came a small vessel commanded by Captain CROSSE. They cast anchor at Point Curiapan, ‘which the Spanyards call Punto de Gallo” \t is now called Hicacos or Icacos; and, with Punta Foletto, forms the Serpent’s mouth.* On the coast they saw a fire, as they sailed from Point Carao, now called Negra Point, to Curiapan. For fear of the Spaniards, no Indian dared to come to speak with the Englishmen. Before anchoring at Curiapan, RALEIGH had got out his barge, and in it coasted the Island ‘close abord the shore and landed in every cove, the better to know the island, while the ships kept the channell.’ At Curiapan they stayed four or five days ; but, in all that time, they ‘came not to the speach of anie Indian or Spaniard.’ From Curiapan they ‘turned up north-east to recover that place which the Spaniards cal Puerto de los Hispanioles, and the inhabitants Conqueradia.’ As be- fore, Sir WALTER left the ships, got into his barge, and * The Topographical notes of Sir Robert Schomburgk, to Raleigh’s Discoverie of Guiana, are used here to elucidate Sir Walter’s account of his itinerary. 366 TIMEHRI. kept by the shore, ‘ the better to come to speach with some of the inhabitantes, and also to understand the rivers, watering places and portes of the island, He refers to a chart of Trinidad upon which he was engaged. One can only wonder what has become of that ‘ plot and description of the island.’ Of the island, its inhabitants, (the ‘ naturals’) and its productions, RALEIGH gives the following general description :— ‘This iland of Zrznedado hath the forme of a sheep- hook, and is but narrow; the north part is very moun- teynous, the soile is very excellent and wil beare sugar, ginger, or any other commodity that the Indies yeeld. It hath store of deare, wyld porks, fruits, fish and fowle. It hath also for bread sufficient Wazs, Cassauz*, and of those roots and fruits which are common euery where in the West /nzdies. It hath diuers beasts, which the /ndtes have not: the Spaniards confessed that they found grains of gold in some of the rivers, but they hauing a purpose to enter Guiana (the Magazin of all rich mettels) cared not to spend time in the search there- of any farther. The iland is called by the people thereof Cairi,t and in it are diuers nations: those about Parico are called /azo ; those at Punto Carao are of the Arwa- cas and betweene Carao and Curiapan they are called * These two plants supply the most useful food of the Indian tribes they form their staff of life, The grains of the first (Zea Mays, Linn.) furnish the Indian corn or maize, and from the roots of the second (Manihot utilissima, Pohl), although itself a strong poison in its natural state, the Indians prepare a nutritious substitute for bread. + Sometimas given as Jere, the Indian word for humming bird, Trini dad abounds with that beautiful bird. EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 367 Saluatos ; betweene Carao and Punta Galera* are the Nepoios, and those about the Spanish Citie tearme them- selues Carinepagotos.t Of the rest of the nations, and of other portes and riuers I leaue to speak heere, beeing impertinent to my purpose, and meane to describe them as they are situate in the particular plot and description of the island, three partes whereof I coasted with my barge, that I might the better discribe it.”’ 17. Of his voyage along shore, in his barge, which had been re-vitualled for the service, RALEIGH says :— * From Curviapan | came toa port and seat of Indians called Parico, where we found a fresh-water riuer{, but sawe no people. From thence I rowed to another port, called by the naturals Pzche, and by the Spaniardes Tierra de Brea.§ In the way betweene both were * The north-eastern point of Trinidad is called at present Punta de la Galera; but Columbus designated the south-eastern point of the island under that name, on account of a rock which has the appearance of a vessel under sail. It is now known as Punta Galeota.—Schomburgk’s Note. + The number of Indians, the remnant of those numerous tribes who inhabited Trinidad at the period when Raleigh visited it. amounted in 1831 to seven hundred and sixty-two.—Schomburgk's Note. + Punta del Cedro, or Cedar Point, forms the northern point of this bay. It is no longer known by the name of Parico.—Schomburgk’s Note. § The celebrated pitch-lake of Trinidad near Punta la Brea is situated on the leeward side of the island on a small peninsula; it is nearly circular, and about-a mile and a halfindiameter. The usual appearance of the pitch or asphaltum is that of pit coal, but in hot weather it is liquid. When mixed with grease, oil, or common pitch, to acquire fluidity, it is well-adapted for preserving the bottoms of ships against the destru€tive worm, the Zevedo navalis. Admiral Cochrane made several experiments to use it for nautical purposes, which failed, as it was requisite to mix such a large quantity of oil with it to render it pliable, that it far surpassed the price of common pitch.— Schomburgk’s Note. 34 368 TIMEHRI. diuers little brooks of fresh water, and one salt riuer that had store of oisters vpon the branches of the trees,* and were very salt and wel tasted. Al their oisters grow vpon those boughs and spraies, and not on the ground: the like is commonlie seene in the West Indies and else where. This tree is described by Andrewe Theuet in his French Antartzgue, and the forme figured in his booke as a plante verye straunge, and by Plinze Writing in 1837, Joseph says, ‘ At this day the Arawacks call La Brea, Piché, as they call the river opposite Guarapiche. History of Trinidad pill 7. * The first accounts brought to Europe of oysters growing on trees raised as great astonishment as the relation of El Dorade itself; and to those who were unacquainted with the fa& that these molluscous animals sele&t the branches of the tree, on which they fix themselves during high water, when they are immersed, it may certainly sound strange and wonderful that shells, which as we know live in Europe on banks in the depths of the sea, should be found in the West Indies on the branches of trees. They attach themselves chiefly to the mangrove tree (Rhizophora Mangle, Linn.), which grows along the shore of the sea and rivers with brackish water, and covers immense traéts of coast, rooting and vegetating in a manner very peculiar to that tree, even as far as low water mark. Sir Walter Raleigh, in his History of the World (book i. chap. iv. se&tion 2), compares it erroneously with the Indian fig-tree (Ficus indica), which Becanus considered to be the tree of knowledge, or of life. Raleigh observes in his description that he had seen five hundred oysters hanging on one of the branches (which he calls cords) of a mangrove tree. The water flowing off during ebb leaves the branches with the oysters attached to them high and dry. Three species of mollusca are chiefly found on the mangrove trees, namely Ostrea Rhizophora (Aut. ?), O. folium, and a species of Mytilus. The O. Rhisophore is eaten, and in Porto Rico the price of a barrel of these mangrove oysters is a piaster. We differ with Raleigh respecting their superior taste; they are at the best mere substitutes for an European oyster, very small, and not so delicate.—Schomburgh’s Note, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 369 in his xi. booke of his naturall historie. But in this ilande, as also in Guzana, there are verie manie of them. “At this point called Tierra de Brea or Piche there is that abundance of stone pitch, that all the ships of the world may be therewith loden from thence, and wee made triall of it in trimming our ships to be most excel- lent good, and melteth not with the sunne as the pitch of Norway, and therefore for ships trading the south partes very profitable. From thence we went to the mountaine foote called Anxnaperima,* and so passing the riuer Carone, on which the Spanish Citie was seated, we met with our ships at Puerto de los Hispanioles or Conquerabia.” 18. Arrived at Port of Spain, RALEIGH gives details that inform us of the ruthless errand he had set himself, when with grim purpose he steered for that Port. He tells his story as follows :— “ Meeting with the ships at Puerto de los Hispanioles, we found at the landing place a company of Spanyardes who kept a guard at the descent, and they offering a signe of peace I sent Captatne WHIDDON to speake with them, whome afterward to my great griefe I left buried in the said iland after my returne from Guzana, being a man most honest and valiant. The Spanyards seemed to be desirous to trade with vs, and to enter into tearms of peace, more for doubt of their own strength then for ought else, and in the end vpon pledge, some of them came abord : the same euening there stale also abord vs in a small Canoa two Indians, the one of them being a * This hill, in the neighbourhood of San Fernanda, is now called Naparima, and has given its name to the whole district, ——Schomburghk’s Note. 3A2 370: TIMEHRI. Casigue or Lord of people called Cantyman, who had the yeare before beene with Captaine WHIDDON, and was of his acquaintance, By this Cantyman wee vnder- stood what strength the Spaniardes had, how farre it was to their Citie, and of Don Anthonio de Berreo* the gouernour, who was said to be, slaine in his second attempt of Guzana, but was not, “ While we remained at Puerto de los Hispanioles some Spaniardes came abord vs to buy lynnen of the company, and such other thinges as they wanted, and also to view our shippes and company, all which | enter- tained kindly and feasted after our manner: by meanes whereof I learned of one and another as much of the estate of Guzana as | could, or as they knew, for those poore souldiers hauing beene many yeares without wine, a fewe draughtes made them merry, in which moode they vaunted of Guzana and of the riches therof, and all what they knew of the waies and passages, my selfe seeming to purpose nothing lesse then the enterance or discouerie thereof, but bred in them an opinion that I was bound onely for the reliefe of those english, which, I had planted in Vzvgznzat, whereof the brute was come among them, which I had performed in my returne if extremity of weather had not forst me from the said coast. * Don Antonio de Berreo y Orufia, who figures so conspicuously in Raleigh’s voyage, was governor of Trinidad. t The condué of Raleigh, who was charged with a callous abandon- ment of the poor settlers in Virginia, has been much censured. This passage is one proof among many which we possess, that although he had given up his patent to a company of merchants, he continued to take a strong interest in the fate of the first adventurers in Virginia,— Schomburgk's Note. BARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 371 ‘‘] found occasions of staying in this place for two causes: the one was to be reuenged of Berreo, who the yeare before betraied 8 of Captaine WHIDDONS men and toke them while he departed from them to seeke the £. Bonauenture, which arriued at 7rinedado the day before from the East /udzes: in whose absence Berreo sent a Canoz abord the pinnace onely with Indians and dogs inuiting the company to goe with them into the wods to kil a deare, who like wise men in the absence of their Captaine followed the /xdzans, but were no sooner one harquebush shot from the shore, but Berreos souldiers lying in ambush had them all, notwith- standing that he had giuen his worde to Captaine WHID- DON that they should take water and wood safelie: the other cause of my stay was, for that by discourse with the Spanzards | daily learned more and more of Guzana, of the riuers and passages, and of the enterprize of Berreo, by what meanes or fault he failed, and how he meant to prosecute the same. ‘‘ While we thus spent the time I was assured by another Casigue of the north side of the iland, that Berreo had sent to Marguerita and to Cumana for souldiers, mean- ing to have giuen me a Cassado at parting, if it had bin possible. For although he had given order through ail the iland that no /vdian should come aborde to trade with me vpon paine of hanging and quartering, (hauing exe- cuted two of them for the same which I afterwardes founde) yet euery night there came some with most lamentable complaints of his cruelty, how he had deuided the iiand and giuen to euery soldier a part, that he made the ancient Caszguz which were Lordes of the country to be their slaues, that he kept them in chains, and 372 TIMEHRI. dropped their naked bodies with burning bacon, and such other torments, which I found afterwards to be true: for in the city after I entred the same, there were 5 of the Lords or litle kings (which they cal Caszgud in the west Indies) in one chaine almost dead of famine and wasted with torments: these are called in their own language Acarewana*, and now of late since English, French, and Spanish are come among them, they cal themselves Capiteynes, because they perceiue that the chiefest of euery ship is called by that name. Those five Capitaynes in the chaine were called Wannawa- nare, Carroaort, Maguarima, Tarroopanama, and Atertma. So as both to be reuenged of the former * Humboldt considers that Acarewana signifies, in one of the differ- ent Carib or Caribisi dialeéts, a chief or any person incommand, This supposition is correét; more accurately it refers to the commander or head of the tribe to which he who speaks and makes use of the word belongs. The name of a chief or commander in the general sense of the word is Tepotori in the Macusi language, but if the speaker alludes to the chief of his own tribe or horde, he would say Epotoriwana ; that is, our headman or chieftain. As Raleigh observes, these petty chief- tains call themselves now capitan or captain. Esakamapung in the Caribisi, or Tepotorokung in the Macusi dialeé, signifies a great captain or chief who had command over a number of inferior chiefs ; it ig perhaps analogous to ‘ king’ in the English language, The metaphorical application of the word tepotori in the Macusi language deserves a passing observation, as it affords an instance of the similarity of the metaphors employed in the infancy of languages ir. general. The largest of a number of apples, oranges or any other oLjeéts would be called by a Macusi tepotori, the chieftain or captain. This application reminds us of our own expression in childhood for the largest apple or orange among a number, which playfully would be called “the captain ;” and if we follow the idea suggested by this applieation it will lead us to the most striking qualifications required tor a leader,—Schemburgh’s Note. EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 373 wrong, as also considering that to enter Guzana by small boats, to depart 400 or 500 miles from my ships, and to leaue a garison in my backe interested in the same enterprise, who also daily expected supplies out of Spaine, I should haue sauoured very much of the Asse: and therefore taking a time of most aduantage, I set vpon the Corp du guard in the evening, and hauing put them to the sword, sente Captaine CALFEILD on- wards with 60 soldiers, and my self followed with 40 more and so toke their new city which they called S. Toseph*, by breake of day : they abode not any fight after a few shot, and al being dismissed but onely BERREO and his companion, | brought them with me abord, and at the instance of the Indians I set their new city of S. Josephs on fire.” 19. On the same day that the Spaniards were fallen upon, and BERREO was taken prisoner, RALEIGH was re- inforced by tbe arrival of Captain GEORGE GIFFORD, in the Lzon’s Whelpe, and Captain LAWRENCE KEyMIS, in the Gallego. With them came ‘ divers Gent. and others, which to our little army was a great comfort and supply.’ 20. Having paid off his score against the Spaniards of Trinidad, Sir WALTER and his companions made haste * Among the Indian tribes of the Upper Orinoco and its northern tributaries, the Ventuari, Padamo, &c., the descendants of the Spaniards are still called Castilanos, When the Macusis speak of the Spanish inhabitants of the Lower Orinoco about Angostura, they call them sometimes Carrakinio (perhaps from Caracas ?), but more frequently Espafiolos. The descendants of the Portuguese or Brazilians are called in the Carib diale&ts and by the Guianians in general Caraiwa; those of the Teutonic races, as the English, Dutch, Parana-ghiri, signifying Sea-people. Caraiwa is a foreign word, and has been introduced from the Tapuyas; it signifies ‘ white man,’—Schomburgk’s Noée. 374 TIMEHRI. to return to Curiapan: thence to make their way, up the Orinoco, in quest of Guiana. Before quitting Port of Spain, the Captain of the Guard to Queen ELIza- BETH, called together a number of the Indian Captains of the Island, and informed them of the Power of the Sovereign of England. In the subjoined statement of this transaction, RALEIGH’S account of the effeét of his showing the Virgin Queen’s picture to the simple islan- ders, is simply delicious ;— *‘We then hastened away towards our purposed dis- couery, and, first I called all the Captaines of the iland together that were enemies to the Spaniardes, for there were some which BERREO had brought out of other countries, and planted there to eat out and wast those that were natural of the place, and by my Indian Inter- preter, which I carried out of England, | made them vnderstand that I was the seruant of a Queene who was the great Caszgue of the north, and a virgin, and had more Casigui vnder her then there were trees in their iland: that she was an enemy to the Caste//anz* in respe& of their tyrannie and oppression, and that she delivered all such nations about her as were by them oppressed, and hauing freed all the coast of the northern world from the seruitude had sent me to free them also, and withal, to defend the country of Guzana from their inuasion and conquest. I shewed them her maiesties pi€ture which they so admired and honoured, as it had beene easie to have brought them idolatrous thereof.+ —* St. Joseph is now almost abandoned since Port of Spain became the capital. The number of inhabitants amounted in 1837 to six hundred and four. + Raleigh possessed the indispensable accomplishment of a courtier of Queen Elizabeth's reign, namely the art of flattery, in a high degree, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 375 “ The like and a more large discourse I made to the rest of the nations both in my passing to Guiana, and to those of the borders, so as in that part of the world her maiesty is very famous and admirable, whom they now call Ezvrabeta Casstpuna Aquerewana, which is as much as Elizabeth, the great princesse or greatest commaun- der. This done wee left Puerto de los Hispanoles, and returned to Curzapan, and hauing BERREO my prisonour I gathered from him as much of Guzana as he knewe.” 21. Leaving their ships and some of their Companiqns at Curiapan, Sir WALTER and about 100 officers and men, in wherries, one little barge, a small cock-boat, and a galley; carrying nine or ten men a-piece, with We refer to his poetry and his letters of adulation written to the Queen during the period he was for the first time confined in the Tower; nay even the romantic incident of the cloak, which, as Fuller tells us, led to his favour with the Queen, proves him the accomplished courtier. The adulation which pervades the account of his discovery, from the com- mencement to the end, does not astonish us therefore; but we venture to say, from the knowledge we possess of the charafer and taste of the Indian, that a representation of Zuccaro's portrait of her Majesty, now at Hampton Court, in which she is presented in a fantastic dress, and, which we must confess, does not convey to our imagination the idea of beauty, would have had many more attractions for the assembled multi- tude of admiring Indians than the portrait which Raleigh showed to them.—Schomburgk’s Note. At the meeting of the British Association at Ipswich in 1895, Mr. im Thurn, C.M.G., the author of Among the Indians of Guiana, made a statement, in the Anthropological se&tion, that shows the Indians of Guiana as still prone to the admiration of piftures. Mr.im Thurn said: ‘In one instance a savage tribe in Guiana, as the result of a fort. night’s teaching, were baptised, and they then abandoned their hunting and erected a church, but instead of a religious painting such as the one in the building they were imitating they put up a portrait of Mr. Gladstone from the J/lustrated London News.” 3B 376 ) ‘TIMEHRI. their victuals and arms; set off on their journey up the Orinoco. They promised to return in fifteen days, but were away a month. Of that admirable piece of ex- ploration, a delightful description will be found in RALEIGH’S charming account of Zhe Dzscoverte of the Large, Rich, and Beautiful Empire of Guiana. When the explorers returned to Curiapar, after passing through severe hardships, they found their ships at anchor: ‘then which,’ says RALEIGH, ‘there was never to us a-more joyfull sight.’ After burying Captain WHIDDON at Trinidad, the little Fleet sailed away for England. 22. In 1596, Captain LAURENCE KEynISs in the Dar- ling, returning from a voyage of exploration to Guiana, stopped at Trinidad, after touching at Tobago. His own account of his visits to those places is very short, They fell in with the Punta de Galera, “ the North-Eastermost part of Trinidad. But having Tobaco in sight we first went thither. This isle is plentiful of all things, anda very good soil. It is not now inhabited, because the Charibes of Dominica are evil neighbours unto it. They of Trinidad have a meaning and purpose to fly thither, when no longer they can keep Trinidad. Their only doubt is, that when they are seated there the Spaniard will seek to possess it also. The Governor of Margarita . went lately in a pinnace to view this island. GILBERT, my pilot, who sometime lived there, noteth it for the best and fruitfulest ground that he knoweth. “Thence we returned to Punta de Galera, and anchored in ten fathom under the North side of the Island, some five or six miles from the said point. The flood-tide striketh along the coast to the Eastward very strongly. We discharged a piece of Ordnance, and afterward went EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 377 to the shore in our boat; but no Indian came unto us. I would have sent JOHN of Trinidad to procure some of them to speak with us; but he was altogether unwilling alleging that their dwellings were far within the mountains, and that he knew no part of that side of the Island. From this place we set sail for Santa Lucia, but fell with Granata, which we found not inhabited:” 23. When Sir WALTER RALEIGH was on his way down the Orinoco, in 1595, he left two young English- men with Topiawari, the chief Cacique of Arromaia, to learn the language of the Indians in that part of the country. One of these was FRANCIS SPARREY, ‘a ser- vant’ of Captain GIFFORD, and the other HUGH GOODWIN, a ‘boy’ of Sir WALTER’S. GOODWIN was eaten bya jaguar. In 1596, SPARREY was taken from the Orinoco, to Cumana, by Captain PHILIPE DE SANTIAGO, who had been sent to fetch the two Englishmen, by DON ROQUE _ DE MONTES, the Royal Treasurer of Cumana. SPARREY was sent prisoner to Spain. He published, in 1602, a description of Trinidad, which will be found in Chapter 11, Volume IV, of PuRCHAS’S Pilgrims.* 24. Master JOHN WILSON, on his return from the Wiapoco, or Oyapok, in 1606, in a Dutch ship, put in at Trinidad. The ‘Spaniards entertained him and his com- panie very kindly for they gave them Tobacco for all such commodities as-they had, and suffered them to lade Pitch which goeth out of the ground there, for that our Master durst not goe to the Point de Ree to lade sault there as he determined, because he heard that the Spaniard did lye there with their men of warre, and had taken cer- * See Reports from Santiago and de Montes, in 1596, in the Parlia- mentary Blue Book: Venezuela No. 1, (1896), pp.4g to SI. 3B2 378 _TIMEHRI. wor Nig ih ah TAO taine Holland Shippes, and had flung over boord all the . men that were with them.’ 25. In conne€tion with the first attempt to found an English colony in the Island of Grenada, a glimpse is given of Trinidad, in 1609, in the following statement extraéted from the Sloane MSS., 3662, folios 52, 53 :— “ This Island (Grenada) was first attempted to be settled by some Merchants of London, Anno. 1608, The chiefe undertakers were Mr. GODFREY, Mr. HALL, Mr. LULL, Mr. QUARLES and Mr. ROBINSON in behalfe of themselves and Company. They equipped and sett to sea the good ships named the Drana, Penelope, and Endeavour ; who arrived in the Great Bay of this Granada the first of Aprill 1609, and soone after landed 208 men who were often disturbed by the Indians, nor indeed were they persons fitt for the settling of plantagons, being the greater part the people of London, noe way inured to hardship and soe not capeable of encoun- ~ tring the difficulty that attends new plantacions in the West Indies, these ships having landed their passengers in pursuance of their orders sayled thence to the river Caroone, in Trinidada, to settle some trade wth, the Spaniards, in wch, they did not onely faile but were de- layed, DON SANCHES DE MENDOZA, the Governor of Trini- dada, untill he found a way to distroy the English Colonie begun at that Island Granadas : the Spaniard never likeing the English neighbourhood. By his heightning the jeal- ousies of the Indians, which did by some Fryers that spake the Indian language sent thither from Trinidada, while they were treateing wth the English about a trade, At lenth Capt. MENDOSA advised the English merchants aboard the ships to take care of theire new Collonie in \ EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 379 that he believed they were in distresses, assured them that he had found upon mature consideracion, that he could not mainetaine a trade without apparent hazzard of his life and fortune, upon wch. those ships sayled from Trinidada back for the Granadas where they found their colony, the greatest part destroyed: those few that re- mayned they tooke wth. them for England, and the 15th day of December, 1609, they arrived in England to ye great dissattisfaction of their employers, who would (not?) embarque any more, on soe advantageous a designe wherein they had once miscarried, wch. are the reasons rendered by Mr. GODFREY in his own writing, (one of the undertakers) which he hath left unto posterity.” 26. ROBERT HARCOURT, of Stanton Harcourt in Oxfordshire, an English gentleman, had a Patent from King JAMEs I, to establish a Plantation in Guiana.* In 1609, this descendant of ‘ noble, nay Royal ancestors,’ called at Trinidad, on his return to England. In his * In the Bodleian Library, Oxford, is preserved the letter of which the following is a copy (Tanner MS., LXXI, 154.) To his honoured friend Sir Henry Spelman, Knt., These. Worthy Sir,—It will much concern my brother Sr. Simon Harcourt at a trial wh. he shall have shortly at Stafford Sizes, to make good proof of my father’s death in Guiana. We have already to that purpose Captain King his oath, who was there at ye time of his death, but to strengthen that proof, our request to you is that you would be pleased, to certifie under your hands to this bearer, Mr. Astley, what yourself and the Companie have heard and verily believe, concerninge his death; and for this favour I shall ever be ready to acknowledge, and to my power to expresse myself,— Your Servant at your Commande. Fr. HARCOURT. Mid. Temple, Feb. 27, 1632. The deceased was probably Michael Harcourt, younger brother of Simon, Michael was a fellow-colonist with his elder brother in 1609, in Guiana. In 1618, he was a Captain in Sir W. Raleigh’s Expedition. 380 TIMEHRI. Relation, which was published in 1613, and is reprinted in Volume III, of the Harldetan Miscellany, HARCOURT says :— “ When I came a-board, we weighed anchor, and steered away from (for?) the island of Trinidado; and, upon the eighteenth day in the morning, we arrived at Punta de Galea, where we found three English ships at anchor which was no small comfort unto us, considering our great defe€ts and wants. One of these ships was called the Dzana, belonging to Mr. LUL, a Dutch merchant, dwelling in London: the other two, the Penelope, and Endeavour, belonging to Mr. HALL, a merchant also of London. We staid at this place six days to mend our bad casks, and to take fresh water, during which time I was kindly treated and feasted by the merchants, and had supply of all such things as I| stood in need of, which courtesy I requited in the best manner I could for the present. Upon Sunday the twenty-fourth of September we weighed anchor; so likewise did the Diana, the other two ships being gone two or three days before us ; but the wind shifting to the north-east, forced us back again almost to the same place from whence we departed. The twenty-fifth we weighed again, and plied along the shore towards Cape Brea, about three leagues. The Cape is so called of the pitch which is there gotten in the earth, whereof there is such abundance, that all places on this side of the world may be stored therewith. It is a most excellent pitch for trimming of ships that pass into these regions and hot countries, for it melteth not with the sun as other pitch doth. The twenty-sixth day we stood long again, the wind EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 381 being still contrary and variable, intermixed with many calms, and so continued until the second of Oé€tober, when we arrived at Porte de Hispania. Within two days after our arrival there, DON SANCHES DE MENDOSO, the teniente for that year, with certain other Spaniards, came aboard us: we gave them the best entertainment that our means, the time, and place would afford, and had much friendly conference together. They told me, that they lately had a confli€&t with the Caribbees, wherein they had lost seven or eight of their men, and had many others hurt and wounded, whereof some came to my surgeon to have their wounds dressed during our abode there; and they plainly confessed, that they are very much molested by the Caribbees, and knew not how by any means to suppress them. We staid at Porte de Hispania until the seventh day, in hopes to get some good tobacco amongst the Spaniards, who daily fed us with delays and fair words; but, in truth, they had none good at that present for us, which we perceiving, departed thence upon the seventh day, about one o’clock in the morning, leaving the other ships to attend their trade, and stood away for the passages called Les sciot boccas de Drago, and disembogued about eight o’clock the same morning.” 27. Sir THOMAS ROE was sent ‘ upon a discovery to the West Indies’, by Prince HENRY, the eldest son of King JAMeEs I. Writing to the Earl of Salisbury, from Port ad’ Espaigne, Trinidad, on the 20th of Feb- ruary 1611, Sir THOMAS said, he had seen more of the Coast, from the Amazon to the Orinoco, than any English- man alive, having passed the Wze/d Coas¢ and arrived at Port d’ Espagne, The Spaniards there were proud and 382 TIMEHRI. insolent, yet needy and weak. ‘Their force was reputa- tion: their safety, opinion. The Spaniards treated the English worse than they did the Moors. There was news that the King of Spain intended ‘ to plant Orinoco.’ Men, cattle, and horses, were arriving daily, to be employed in fortifying Trinidad, raising a new City, and in the ‘Conquest’ of Guiana. ROWE’S own opinion was that ‘all will be turned to smoke.’ The Government was lazy : and had more skill in planting and selling Tobacco, than in ere€ting Colonies or marching Armies.* 28. In November 1617, Sir WALTER RALEIGH arrived in the West Indies, for the second time, in search of El Dorado. On the 11th of November he made the North Cape of Wiapoco, in Guiana. There he rode sufficiently long for his skiff to go to the shore, to enquire for his “ sarvant, LEONARD, the Indien who bine with me in England 3 or 4 yeers, the same man that tooke Mr, HARCORT’S brother and 50 of his men when they came upon that Coast and were in extreme distress, having neither meat to carry them home nor meanes to live there, but by the help of this Indien whom they made believe that they were my men: but I could not here of him by my boat that I sent in, for he was removed 30 mile into the country, and because I had an ill rode and 5 leages of, I durst not stay his standing for.’ From the Wiapoco, RALEIGH stood for Caliana, which we now know as Cayenne, ‘where the CASIQUE was also my sarvant, and had lived with mee in the Tower 2 yeers.’ He left in port at Wiapoco, two Hollanders, that were loading with ‘Onotto, gums, and spekeld wood.’t On * Calendar of State Papers: Colonial Series, 1574 to 1660, p. 11. } Letter-wood, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 383 the 14th RALEIGH arrived at Cayenne. He sent his barge asnore, to enquire for his servant HARRY, the Indian. When Harry came, a day or two after, he ‘had almost forgotten his Inglish,’ but not his friendship for his old Chief. He brought great store of food, to the refreshing of Sir WALTER’S Company. At Cayenne was Captain JANSEN, of Flushing, ‘who had traded that place a dussen yeares.’ On the 17th of November, with the help of Captain JANSEN, Sir \v¥ALTER’S ship, the Destiny, got over the bar and went intothe river. Here the sick were set ashore, and here they all recovered. Here also the barges were set up; the ships were cleaned ; the casks were trimmed and filled with water; and the smith’s forge was set up, and such iron work was made as the Fleet needed. At Cayenne they remained until the roth of December, when the Fleet assembled at the isles du Salut. Here 400 soldiers and sailors were em- barked in the Encounter, the Confidence, the Supply, and another vessel, for the Expedition up the Orinoco, They sailed on the roth, Sir WALTER RALEIGH himself leaving for Trinidad, two or three days after. Besides his ship, the Destiny, there went with him, the ¥ason (Captain JOHN PENNINGTON), the 7hunder, (Sir WAR- HAM ST. LEGER), the F/y¢ng Hart (Sir JOHN FERNE), the Chudley, and two orthree others. In that most valuable edition of the Discoverie of Guiana, published by the HAKLUYT Society, and edited by Sir ROBERT SCHOM- BURGK, thereis printed the Journal which Sir WA..TER kept, in his own hand, of his second voyage. From that record the following entries relating to Trinidad are extra€éted* :— © The 15 of December we made the land neere Pynéto «x Cotton MSS., Titus, B, VIIL, fol. 153. 3C 384 . TIMEHRI. : Annegada at the mouth of Orenoke,* and that night we saw the northest part of Trinidado, and came to ancor in 30 fathom 6. L. of the shore, from thence we coasted the Iland neere the south syde in 15 fathom and neere the shore in to and 11 fathom and coming close abord the poynt of the rode att the west end of the Iland which poynt they naturally call Curiapan, and the Spaniards Punéto de gallo we had 5. fathom. It floweth on this south coast E.N.E. and W.S.W. it is needfull to saile neere the poynt of Gallo which you may do boldly because ther lyeth a dangerous legg of rock so half a mile of the rode to the westward, a most forcible current that setts of the poynt, a greater current can no wher be found the cur- rant of Bahama excepted. The 17 we came to Ancor at Punéto Gallo where wee stayd (taking water, fish and some Armadellias, refresh- ing our men with palmeto, Guiavas,t piniorellas and * In a manuscript map of the world, to which we have had oppor- tunity to allude on a former occasion, the right bank of the Cafioa Manamo near its embouchure is called Anegada (from anegar in Spanish, to immerse or cover with water). From Sir Walter Ralegh’s account it is evident that he alludes to a more eastern point, probably the present Point Barima, which is called Terra basse in the old manuscript map. This conclusion is rendered more probable by some observations in his Apology. (See Cayley, vol. ii. p, 124).— Schomburgk’s Note. + The Guiavas, or rather Guavas, are the fruits of Psidium pomiferum and P., pyriferum Linn, trees about eighteen feet high, They are as large as a middle sized apple, which they resemble in shape, of a bright yellow outside, and the pulp of a reddish colour, intermixed with very small hard seeds, The second kind (P. pyriferum) is considered by many to be merely a variety of the first, improved by cultivation, They have a pleasant sub-acid and aromatic taste, and, prepared with sugar and milk, may be compared to strawberries. A rich jelly or marmalade is likewise made of them. We do not know what fruit Ralegh calls Piniorellas,—Schomburgk's Note, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 385 other frute of the country) till the last of December. In sayling by the south coast of Trinidado I say (saw ?) in one day to witt the 16 of December 15 rainebowes, and 2 wind galls, and one of the rainebowes brought both ends together att the sterne of the shipp making a perfait cirkell which I never saw before nor any man in my shipp _ had seene the like.* The last of December we wayed ancor and turned up northest towards Conquerabo, otherwise called the port of Spayne being new yeers eve, and wee came to Ancor at Terra de Bri, short of the Spanish port some 10 leagues. This Terra de Bri is a peece of land of some 2 leagues longe and a league brode, all of ston pich or bitymen which riseth out of the ground in little springs or fountaynes and so running a little way, it hardneth in the aire, and covereth all the playne ; ther are also many springs of water and in and among them fresh water fishe. Here rode att ancor, and trymd our boates, we had here some fishe, and many of the country fesants somewhat bigger then ourst, and many of the henns exceeding fatt and delicate meat, The 1g of Januarie we sent vp Sir J. FERNS shipp to the Spanish port, to try if they would trade for Pobacco * In the spray of the sea or a cascade a circular rainbow is often seen, and if it were not for the interruption of the earth a circular spectrum would be seen at all times when the conditions are favourable for forming a rainbow.—Schomburgk s Note. + Several species of birds from Guiana and other parts of South America have been compared with the pheasants of the Old World, but chiefly Penelope cristatus Gmel., P. pipile Jacq. and Phasianus Mamot Gmel., the Catraca of Buffon. The first is the most common, and is called Marudi in British Guiana; the flesh is tasteful, though sometimes (as we know by experience) very tough.—Schomburgk’s Note, 3 C2, 386 TIMEHRI. and other things, but when her boate was neere the shore while they on the land were in parle with Cap: GILES who had charge of the boat, the Spaniards gave them a volley of some 20 musketts at 49 paces distant, and yet hurt never a man, as our bote putt of they called our men theeves and traytors with all manner of opprobrious speeches.* | Thet of Januarie we sent back the Viceadmirall Cap: PENINGTON to punéto Gallo to attend the returne of our companies in Orenoke. The 29 of Jan: we lost one of Sir JO: FERN’S men who being ashore boyling of the country pich, was shot by a Spaniard who lay in the woods all night with five other Spanierds, our shipps taking the alarm we waied out our boates, I tooke my barge with six shott, Capt: CHUDLEY tooke his skiff, and Sir W. SENTLEGER his, wee pursued them witb all hast possible and forst them to forsacke their canoas and run into the thick woods, leaving behinde them their cloakes, and all other their im- plements but theirarms. Ther were of Sir]: FERN’S men three, and one boy, one of them wasslayne, oneswamabord, and third hidd himself in the woods till my barge came ashore, the boy we suppose was carried with them alive. * Fray Simon; in his ‘ Noticias historiales,’ asserts that Ralegh intended to disembark his men for the purpose of assaulting St. Joseph. Lieutenant Benito de Baena, informed of his projeét, posted his people so advantageously at Port of Spain, that the attack of the English was repulsed with the loss of several men, one being taken prisoner, who informed De Baena of the departure of a part cf the fleet for the Orinoco. Ralegh’s simple account of this affair is more probable; the prisoner of whom Be Baena speaks was douptless the boy lost during the affair of the 2gth of January.—Schomburghk’s Note. 7 A similar blank in the original.— Schomburghk’s Note. EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 387 The last of Jan: we returned from the pich land to Punéto Gallo, hoping to meet our men which we sent into Orenoke. The first of Februarie the sentenell which we had layd to the eastward of Punéto Gallo to discover if any shipps or boates cam from the east alongst the coast, for we could not discouer any thing wher we rode till they were within a mile of vs by that the poynét lay out so farr ; these of the sentenell discovered 7 Indiens and brought them vnto vs. They had a village some 16 mile trom vs to the eastward, and as it proued afterward came but as spies to discouer our forces, they were two dayes, abord and would be acknown, that they could speake any word of Spanish, but by signes they made vs know that they dwelt but one dayes jurney towards the east. I keipt 3 of them abord and sent 12 of my men with the other 4 to see their towne and to trade with them, but in ther way thitherward one of the Viceadmiralls men espied an Indien, one of the 4 who two yeere before he had seene in Orenoke, and taking him by the arme told him that he knew him, and that he could speake Spanish, in the end alter many threates, he spake, and confest, that one of the three abord my shipp could also speake Spanishe ; whervppon the Viceadmiralls man returning abord mee, and I threating the cheif of these which I had keipt, one of them spake Spanish, and told mee that certayne Indiens of the dround lands inhabited by a nation called Tibitivas ariving in a Canoa att his port, told him that the Inglish in Orenoke had taken St. Thome, slaine DIEGO DE PALMITA* the Governour, slayne Cap: ERENETTA, and Cap: JOHN RUES, and that the rest of the Spanierds ——— * Diego Palomeque de Acuna, 388 TIMEHRI. (their Captaynes slayne) fledd into the mountaynes and that two Inglish Captaynes were also slayne. This tale_ was also confirmed by another Indien which my men brought from the Indien towne with divers other particu- larities, which I forbeare to sett downe till I know the trewth, for the 6 of this moneth I sent the viceadmirall skiff from Punéto Gallo towards Orenoke man’d with 10 musketiers to understand what my men had don their, and the cause of their longe stay, having received no newse from them since they entred Orencke but by these Indiens since the 10 of December,, other then that they were att the rivers mouth, which newse Cap : CHUDLEY (who accompanied them so farr) brought mee. The 3 of January* my men returned from the Indien town and brought with them some Cassivi bread with other frutes, and very faire Orenges. The forth of January* a boat that I had sent over to the south syde wher I saw a great fier returned not finding any people ther. The 6, day I sent a skiff over toward Orenoke man’d with ro musketiers, to here what was become of my men their. The same day came into this port Cap: GINER of the Ile of Waight and his pinnes. The 8 day I sent 16 musketiers by land to the Indien towne to bring away some of the Indiens which spake Spanish and to separate them from those two which I keipt abord mee because I found them so divers in their * We have copied the date literally’ from the original manuscript, though it is evident that Ralegh meant the month of February. The great suspense about the fate of the Orinoco expedition, which at that period must have been much increased by the reports brought to him by the Indians, doubtless caused an error, which gives us a picture of the anxiety of his mind.—Schomburgk’s Note, EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 3809 reports as towching Orenoke, and because one of them in the Indien towne, were in St. Thome when it was taken by the Inglish. I was desirus by taking 2 or 3 of the rest to know the trewth but so careless were the mariners I sent as they suffered all to go loose and to es- cape: but I had yet 2 Indiens abord mee, and a third went pilot for Orenoke, one of these I sent away with knives to trade with a nation inhabiting the est part of Trinidado called the Nepoyios, with this charge that if he came not agayne after 4 dayes (which was the time by him required) that I would then hange his brother which was the pilot as aforesayd, and this other Indien abord, to which the Indien abord condiscented. But the 12. of Februarie, I went ashore and tooke the Indien with mee fastned and well bound to one of my men, so caried him with me to shew me the trees which yeild balsemum of which I had recouered a nuttfull of that kinde which smells like Angolica and is very rare and pretious*, and after it was 10 a clock and very hott, the wood also being full of musketos, I returned and left my Indien in charge with one of my masters mates and 3 others, but I was no sooner gonn but they untyde him and he att the instant tooke the wood and escaped, not- withstanding that I had told them that if the Indien gatt * Ralegh’s observation, that the balsam resembled Angolica, by which he alludes to the violet-scented Orris root (Jris florentina), causes us to conjecture that it is the balsam of Tolu, which is yielded by a tree called Myrospermum toluiferum, Rich. We have found that useful tree near the Saerere mountains, between the rivers Rupununi and Takutu, and the natives of these regions wear the seeds, which are equally fragrant with the resin, as ornaments round their body. If we are corre& in our supposition, this tree is no longer to be met with in Trinidad,—Schom burgk’s Note. 390 TIMEHRI. but a tree betweene him and them and were loose that all the Inglish in the fleet could not fetch him agayne. 1 had now none left but the pilott sent to Orenoke and I feare me that he also will slipp away by the negligence ~ of the mariners who (I meane the common sort) are dilligent in nothing but pillaging and stealing. The 13 day Cap: GINER and | made an agrement that he shoulde follow me with his small shipp and pinnes for 6 moneths after this 13 day. The same Evening I sent Sir W. SENTLEGER Cap: CHUDLEY and Cap: GILES with 60 men to the Indien towne to try if I could recover any of them.” Before parting from KEyMIS, at Cayenne, Sir WALTER RALEIGH had given the latter written instru€tions for his guidance. Among these, KEYMIS was direéted as fol- lows: “ Let me hear from you as soon as I can. You shall find me at Puncto Gallo, dead or alive. And if you find not my ships there, you shall find their ashes. For I will fire, with the galleons, if it come to extremity ; but run will I never.’ When, therefore, RALEIGH’S journal stops short, with an entry up to the evening of the 13th of February, made at Punéto Gallo, it is rea- sonable to conclude, that, on the 14th of February, at that place, RALEIGH received the letter written on the 8th of January, in which KEyIs reported progress to him. With his letter, KEYMIS also sent ‘a parcel of scattered papers,’ reserving a ‘cart-load,’ On’the 2nd of March, KEYMIS, GEORGE RALEIGH, and others rejoined Sir WAL- TER at Punéto Gallo. It was some days after this that KEYMIS put an end to himself. He had in vain appealed to RALEIGH to allow him to send a defence of his con- du€t, which he had written to the Earl of Arundel, “I EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 391 know not then, Sir, what course to take,’’ were, the last words of KEYMIS to RALEIGH, in the latter’s cabin in the Destiny. Going then tothe Couvertine, KEYMIS entered his own cabin, A pistol shot was soon heard. RALEIGH sent to ask who had fired it. KEYMIS himself answered, that he had shot off the pistol, because it had been long charged. Half an hour afterwards; KEYMIS was found lying dead in his cabin, “ having a long knife thrust, under his left pap, through his heart, and his pistol lying by him, with which it appeared that he had shot himself; but the bullet lighting upon a rib, had but broken the rib, and went no further.” The coming dramatist of Trinidad will find ample materials for a Tragedy in the events of 1618, as they transpired at Puncto de Gallo, now called Hzcacos. Little did RALEIGH’S contemporaries reck, how near to San Thomas, abundance of Gold would, in after times, be found by Englishmen at the O/d Callao Mine in Venezuela; and, in the neighbouring English colony of British Guiana. RALEIGH, the Founder of our Colonial Empire, returned to England, only to be butchered to make a Spanish Holiday. The GREAT ELIZABETHAN was, by order of King JAMEs I, executed in Old Palace Yard, Westminster, on the 29th of O€tober, 1618, under a sentence passed in 1603, for alleged offences of con- spiring with Spain against England !* 29. The English were not the only Heretics who made free with His Catholic Majesty’s island of Trinidad. * Fustice may forgive Kingdoms betrayed, and Worlds resigned to Spain, But never can forgive a Raleigh slain, —Churchill’s Gotham, Book I, 3D 392 TIMEHRI. The ubiquitous Dutchmen, not content with settling themselves in Guiana, resorted to Trinidad at their pleasure. Their visits annoyed the Spanish authorities, who seem to have found some relief to their feelings by stigmatising the Dutch as ‘ Lutherans.’ On the 16th of June 1614, DON JUAN TOSTATE, who, in the absence of SANCHO DE ALEUISA, governed the island, reported that he had, in the previous year ‘hanged several ‘ Flemish,’ © whom he had captured in a small vessel. One of the captives had been given to DON GERONIMO DE PORTU- GAL. The DON stated, further, that he had persecuted» and given such ill-welcome, to those that had attempted to reconnoitre the place, that they had never returned. But twenty days, however, before he wrote, some natives had brought word that they had seen a number of Carib canoes on the Southern side of the island, in company with some Flemish vessels. Apparently the DON was merely boasting, when he said he had freed Trinidad from the unwelcome visits of the Dutch. The King’s Council in Spain, found it to be proved, that the island was generally surrounded by the Flemish and Caribs, both by seaand land: so that the inhabitants lived in constant want of many things, which they could not go and fetch for fear of the enemy. ‘The Caribs even came as far as ‘ the City,’ to rob and ill-treat the Spaniards. This came of their strong alliance with the Flemish. They always moved together: as they did when they attacked Arrawacks: when they took many of these priso- ners, and carried off their wives.* 30. In 1615, the King of Spain appointed DON DIEGO PALOMEQUE DE ACUNA, to be Governor and * Parliamentary Blue Book, Venezuela, No, 3, pp, 204, 205. EARLY ENGLISH COLONIES IN TRINIDAD. 393 Captain General of Trinidad. He then ordered the Governor of Porto Rico to send 70 to 80 soldiers to Trinidad, that with them, and the men of the country that Don DikEGo might be able to bring together, he might extirpate the Dutch from every point of the island on which they had taken footing.* SI. On the 14th of O&ober, 1637, while DON DIEGO ESCOBAR, the Governor, was in Guiana, the Dutch: with great numbers of Arrawacks, Caribs, Tivitivas, and Ne- pongos: came to Trinidad in 2o vessels. Entering by the Caroni, they took prisoner the watchman stationed at its mouth. Three quarters of an hour before day-break, the invaders attacked the town of San José de Urufia. They burnt and plundered the principal houses. They burnt the Church. The 28 or 30 Spaniards at the settlement made the best resistance they could, without success, One Spaniard, JUAN GALLARDO, was killed ; Captain SANTIAGO and others were wounded. The Dutch threatened to return. As they were going away, an Indian was captured from them by the Spaniards. This man, named ANDRES, had formerly served Captain CHRISTOBAL DE VERA of Guiana. ANDRES told the Trinidad Spaniards that the Dutch were in great nutn- bers “in the three Colonies” of 4Amacuro, Essequibo and Berbice, where they were in league with the Caribs and Arrawacks. Every year, two, three and four ships * Blue Book, Venezuela No, 3. (1896). p. 210. Don Diego was a relative of Count Gondomar, the Spanish Ambassador. When the latter learned of the attack upon San Thomé, he waited upon King James. Exclaiming Pirates ! Pirates! Pirates! and saying nought else, Count Gondomar quitted the Royal presence. 3D2 394 TIMEHRI. came from Holland, bringing assistance and taking away annatto, cotton, hammocks and tobacco.* S32. Not long after their invasion of Trinidad, in the time of DON MARTIN DE MENDOZA’S government, the Dutch built a fort at Point Galera, and founded settle- ments. The latter were destroyed for want of ships, From the former the Spaniards were continually harassed by skirmishes.t For their security, the Dutch had allied themselves with the Caribs, | (To be concluded.) * See pp. 212 to 214, of the British Parliamentary Blue Book, Vene« zuela, No. 3 (1896.) + Blue Book, Venezuela, No. 3) p. 217. Report of Meetings of the Society. Meeting held Fuly gth.—Hon. E. C. Luard, Vice- President in the Chair. Members present 14. EleGtions.—Members : Revd. Jas. Williams and Dr. W. A. Dickson. Associates: Messrs. R. F. Rose, C. F. Braithwaite, G. R. Harrison, A. R. Webber, J. F. Webber and F. M. Carbin. The Chairman reported on behalf of the Dire€tors that the Government had offered the Society the loan ‘on deposit of a copy of the Scientific results of the Challenger Expedition, which they had agreed to accept, with the request that the volumes be allowed to come under the rule as to Reference Books. The Chairman also called attention to copies of the new Catalogue lying on the table which could be obtained from the Librarian at 60c. each. Letters from Messrs. G. S. Jenman and Louis J. W. Paddenburg were read, these gentlemen agreeing to act as Judges in the Tobacco Essay Competition. The Chairman said he was sorry to say that only one Essay had been received as yet, and he was also sorry to see that so little interest appeared to be taken in the matter. A letter from Mr F. V. McConnell was also read, Referring to the stone mortars, &c., exhibited at the previous meeting as having been presented by him to the Museum, he stated that they belonged to the proprie- 396 TIMEHRI. tors of Skeldon, and although therefore he could not present them, he had asked the owners to do so. The following donations were accorded the thanks of the Society :— To the Library—from Mr. A Pinaud ; Official History of the Boundary Discussion and 6 pamplets on the Boundary Question. | From the Commercial Agent of Canada through Mr. Wm. Smith; Statistical Year-Book of Canada. To the Museum— 1 Dutch Coin ... sc ...A, Baptiste. 2 Nests of Birds «Demerara... ..A. H. V. Straker. Very Rare Native Comb...Woyaway Indians __ ...J. Bentley. matched wap heel Georgetown ... A. Gordon, Beetle eve Child in Spirits... ..Wakenaam .. «A, W. Ord. 1 Beetle aa .»-Barima ape --R. M. H. Spence, Shells ... soe «Barbados es Bertie Parnell, Nests and Eggs of Birds ...Supenaam Creek -5. B. Warren. 1 Coral ae Barbados... ...Miss Rickford. 1 Copper Coin ... «French Guiana .«..Mr. Veecock, Cut Tobacco... ... Native one ...G. Stevenson. Colleétion of Shells ..- England ve «A. G. Stubbs. 1 Seed —* Bisari” ... Native oes ...B. S, Conrad, 1 Palm caterpillar ...Georgetown ... «.C. P, Barnes. 1 Hairy Caterpillar ay md -A. P. Mackey. Natural History Colleétion. Anthea oss «Mrs. Oliver Smith. 1 Zoophyte oe ...Fire-steamer... «F, A, Conyers, 1 Larva ane --.Georgetown ... .G, A. Fraser, 1 Water Beetle... a ne ee «R. Wright. 1 Land Shell... ou «.G. S. Jenman, 1 Moth... ona ...Georgetown ... «EF, V. McConnell, 1 Stone Implement ---Potaro ste «. F, W. Hutson. 1 Water Beetle ... «Georgetown ... A. B. Anderson, Mr. Hawtayne exhibited a Gold Medal which had been presented to Mr. W. H. Arnold of Le Repentir on REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS, 397 the 3oth of January, 1838. It was one of twelve which were given to do€tors and managers for their care of the apprenticed labourers in the four years preceding emanci- pation. It had come into his hands as Administrator General, and he thought that if the legal owner would sell it, it might be an interesting relic for the Museum. In reply to a question from Mr. Kirke, the Chairman said that up to the present nothing had been heard of the Columbian Exposition Medals and Diplomas; he would suggest that the American Consul be asked to enquire about them. Mr. Afneas D. Mackay said that he had seen from a Canadian newspaper of May last, that the awards to the Dominion had arrived at Ottawa. He thought those for British Guiana might be on the way, It was agreed that the American Consul be asked to enquire into the matter. The meeting then terminated. te CAM Meeting held August 13th.—Hon., E. C, Luard, Vice- President in the Chair. Members present 16. Ele€tions.—Members ; Drs. E. H. Gewand and P. E. W. McAdam. Associates: Messrs. E, W. Walcott, R. Appin, W. F. Cameron, J. G. Cruickshank, E. H. Hooten, Wm. Greig and Hubert C. Weber. The following communication from the Committee of Correspondence was read :— The Museum, Aug. 13th, 1896. R. T. A. Daly, Esq., Hon, Seéty. R. A. & C. Society. Sir,—I have the honour to report that His Excellency the Governor 398 TIMEHRI. has kindly consented to open the Annual Horticultural and Poultry Show on Thursday next (20th); and that final arrangements for the Show are now being made. The Directors of the Railway, and the Steamer Contra&ors have also most generously encouraged the Show by promising to carry exhibits, iree of charge, to and from the Show along their various routes. Some suggestions have been made as to the keeping of the Show open for a second night if the Mayor and Town Council would kindly grant permission, but the Committee are somewhat doubtful of the results, unless the Seciety endorses the proposal. I have, &c., j. J. QUELCH, Hon. Secretary. The Chairman said that there were some doubts as to the advisability of keeping open the Show for a second evening; he thought it could be better decided on the day of the Show. The Honorary Secretary called attention to the faé& that the Direétors of the Society had rendered the Society liable for a certain sum and that they could scarcely be called upon to a greater extent, if the second opening did not pay expenses. On the motion of the Hon. N. Davis, seconded by Mr. C. H. Legge, it was agreed to leave the matter in the hands of the Committee, permission for the use of the Gardens being obtained in case they should be required. The Chairman, in reference to the Prize offered for an Essay on Tobacco cultivation and curing, said he was glad to say that eleven essays had been received. He regretted however that notwithstanding the clear condi- tions of the comgetition as advertised two competitors had attached their names and addresses instead of noms- de-plume. These were unfortunately disqualified, but perhaps might be published with the others if the writers REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 399 consented and if the Judges thought them of sufficient merit. The essays were now under consideration, and as they were of some length, several weeks would elapse before the decision could be published and the prize awarded. In connection with the Columbian Exposition awards, the Secretary stated that he had written to Mr. A. J. Patterson, Consul for U.S., who had replied that he would look after the matter at once. Communications from the Government in reference to the “ Challenger’ reports and from the Institute of Jamaica thanking the Society for loan exhibits were read. In reference to the loan exhibits to Jamaica, Mr. Quelch said they had been safely returned, He was glad to say that he had made some exchanges of pottery for specimens of the remains found in caves in Jamaica. The following donations were recorded :— To the Library—from Mr, J. A. P. Bowhill; Proceed- ings in Jamaica in regard to the Maroons, 1796. Do. from Capt, Young ; Guppy’s Foraminifera of Trini- dad, To the Museum— Phosphate ae «Cayenne §. ... -.5. S. Nonpareil. - st Barbados... ...Miss Cullingford. 1 Moth =e ...Georgetown ... A. Gill. 5 Alligator’s Eggs ..-Haag’s Bosche fF, B. Greig. 1 Elephant Beetle ...DemeraraR.... ...David Spence. 2 Chrysalids ... ...Georgetown ... .-.Dr, Anderson, 1 Serpentiform Lizard ...Suddie ate ..J. Brumell, 1 Tarantula and Nest’ ...Georgetown ... ...Bertie Waby. 1 River Tortoise He " ofr ...Dr, Deane 2 Stone Implements __ ...Potaro Distric J. A Wilson, 3E 400 TIMEHRI. 6 Surinam Toads ... Surinam ae ... Dr. Aalsmeer. Bones of Bashaw Skull ...British Guiana ...A. Baptiste. Nest of Check bird ts aa ...W. Sharp, Young Deer and two Alli. } 5 ry ieee Yee gators... . ‘ Rose 4 Crown ... es ...Sholto Barnes. Two Spiders... ~ epee ...N. G. Hohenkerk. 1 10 Cent Coin ... «French Guiana ...D. W. Chaee. Calcite Model Cannon... ...Chas, Smith. 1 Nest of Bumming-bird | made of seeds of bird- \bwitisht Gaidna iB Blanvey vine and eggs of Saw- | yer-Beetle Slab of Bermuda Cedar ... Capt. Young. A Moth... st 3 ..-Georgetown ... «Mrs. A, H. Thomson. A Gecko ae --e West Coast ... «J. Moir. On the motion of Mr. H. Kirke a vote of thanks was accorded. Mr. Aineas D. Mackay laid over a sample of grass seed from Canada, called “ Brown tip” which he under- stood was suitable for lawns, &c. The matter was laid over until the next meeting, when further information might be obtained. The meeting then terminated. ——— ; Meeting held September 17th.—Hon, E. C, Luard, Vice-President in the Chair. Members present 15. Eleétions.—Members ; Drs. S. A. Francisco and J. M, de Freitas, Mr. Wm. J. de Freitas. Associates: Messrs. Van Cameron, N. Cannon and L, R. Chase. The following report of the Committee of Correspon- dence was read ;— ; REPORT OF SocigeTyY’s MEETINGS. 4o1 The Museum, Sept. 17th, 1896. R. T. A. Daly, Esq., Hon. Seéty. R. A, & C. Society. Sir,—Pendieg a detailed report on the Horticultural and’ Poultry Show, which was held on'the 2oth ult.. I have! the! honour, by direction of the Committee of Correspondence. to bring before the notice of the Society for their consideration, the following special recommendation of the Committee :— That illuminated certificates of merit be’ presented by the Society to:— ) 1st. The Botanic Gardens. 2nd. Messrs. Gaskin & Co. 3rd. Messrs, Paddenburg. For the special excellence and importance of the Exhibits made by them at that Exhibition ; And that the Committee be authorized to give effect to the same. I have, &c., ]. J. QUELCH, Hon. Secretary. Mr. Aineas D, Mackay moved, seconded by Mr. S. M, Bellairs, that the report be adopted. In reference to the proposed illuminated certificates, the Chairman said he thought that as the Botanic Garden was a Government Institution, it was hardly necessary to give such a certificate in that case. Mr Quelch called attention to the faét. that the Rules of the Show provided that: Public Institutions should have certificates of merit, where deserving. The report was adopted. The Honorary Treasurer laid over the accounts of the Horticultural Show. Mr. Quelch said. the Committee were much indebted to the gentlemen who had assisted in making the Show a success and'he' would specially name the Committee in general, and Professor Harrison, Messrs. Quelch, Jenman 3E 2 402 TIMEHRI. Oe ne and Conyers in particular, to whom he proposed a hearty vote of thanks, This having been seconded by the Hon. A. R. Gilzean it was unanimously carried. The Hon. N. D. Davis suggested that the Show should be opened for two days next year, and Mr. Bellairs stated that the Committee intended to do this if possible, it was also recommended that the price of admission be a shilling the first day and sixpence the second. The Rev. D. J. Reynolds spoke of the services of Professor Harrison and Mr. Quelch and also mentioned Messrs, Vyle and Hargreaves, On the motion of Mr, AZneas D. Mackay seconded by Mr. Conyers, a vote of thanks was accorded to the Vice President for his exertions in the Combined Court to procure the Government Grant, without which the Com- mittee would have been much hampered. The Chairman thanked the meeting, The following communication from the Agricultural Committee was read :-— Georgetown, Sept., 17th, 1896. To the President and Members of the R. A, & C. Society. Gentlemen,—In accordance with the regulations under which the Agri- cultural Committee of the Society is permitted to have free analyses of articles of public interest, by the Government Chemist, I have the honour to forward four (4) analysis of soils from the Pomeroon River and one of scale from a Yaryan pan at Pln. Houston. I have, &c., S. BELLAIRS, Secretary, Agricultural Committee CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS, Of a sample of soil from the Pomeroon River ; marked No. 1, Pomeroon Provision Company’s Grant, 250 roods from river; 100 roods from creek land drained; sent by the Agricultural Committee, R. A. & C. S.; received May, 1896, REPORT OF SOCIETY'S MEETINGS. 403 The air dried soil retained g'25 per cent of hygroscopic moisture. Composition of Dry Soil, * Organic matters and combined water a west = 241473 ft Phosphoric Anhydride ... Ay ae aes Ziad Sulphuric Anhydride a0 Abe fue Sn 027 Iron Peroxide és oye ERE aes ACh 3526 Alumina... sea oes us au, PP LEe4S iatiancse Oxide... “ foe AoE np uytkaces, Calcium Carbonate on oe ace a) Steg + Phosphorie Anhydride oa ay Ace ave 037 Sulphuric Anhydride ane err dae uae *606 Iron peroxide — ae cee we as 2°653 Alumina... cen bee ona ade 6°947 Manganese Oxide ave aaa ses ee. none. Calcium Carbonate ry ac Bs es. none. Calcium Oxide ... wee a ove tee *329 Magnesium Oxide eee toe re 4 373 {£ Potassium Oxide ... a vas ais oes *230 Sodium Oxide ... oe ae «. trace. Insoluble Silica and Silicates 5 auc wae) O0'OL7 100°000 Remark: A very poor clay soil. PSE * Containing Nitrogen wee ose "145 T Soluble in 1 o/o Citric Acid Solution oes ane ‘oo! » ” ” ” ove eee ene ‘002 REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 405 CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS. Of a sample of scale from Quadruple Yaryan tube ; marked Houston ; sent by the Agricultural Committee, R. A. & C. S; received April, 1896. Moisture... aoe ny — ae oe 4°75 Albuminoids (Capt, Yankee Demerara ... pee Silver Coin ae ...Venezuela_... ...Ag. Consul Pinaud: Bates acs Ee sas -»»JOhn Junor. Leaf-Inse& re sa .P. Waddell. Rare Swift i ..H. L. Straker. The meeting then terminated. Meeting held October 22nd.—His Excellency Caven- dish Boyle, C.M.G., President in the Chair. Members present 19. Ele€tions.—Wembers: Messrs. W. A. Sawtell, Jack Morpurgo and C. A. Parrett and Dr. Emile E, Lungwitz. Assoctates: Messrs. C. Neaves, Jas. Fitz- gerald, Chas. W. Todd, H. H. Schram, George Jamieson, J. Atkinson and Frank P. Comber. The following report of the Committee of Correspon- dence was laid over and direéted to be printed and dis- tributed among the members so that it might be discussed at the next meeting :— The Museum, O&. 14th, 1896. To the Direétors: Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society. Sir,—In addition to the short report on the recent Horticultural Show, laid before the last meeting of the Society, I have the honour by REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 407 direG&tion of the Committee of Correspondence to forward the following which has been unavoidably delayed. I have, &c., J. J. QUELCH, Hon. Secretary. REPORT ON THE HORTICULTURAL SHOW, 1806. The Committee are glad to report that the Horticultural and Poultry Show, 1896, was more successful than any previous one, and tends to prove that the efforts of the Society have been produttive of good among the very class aimed at. The new departure of reserving special classes for competition solely among the artisans and labourers, and at the same time giving them the chance of competing in all other sec- tions, has been a very popular one,—the artisan sections being largely patronised, while a keen competition from the same classes took place throughout the whole exhibition. The special efforts, by means of addresses, that had been made by certain members of the Committee, and more especially by the Chairman and Secretary, to make known anc to popularise the objects and advan- tages of the Show, chiefly in the country districts, resulted in a con- siderable addition to the list of exhibitors; but perhaps the most beneficial result has been the permanent interest aroused in many of the more influential persons in the various distriéts, who, by the for- mation of local Committees, did much to secure the success of the Show. The special exhibits from the village districts thus formed a distinc- tive feature of the Exhibition of 1896; and the villages of Golden Grove, Victoria, Ann’s Grove, Buxton, Friendship, and Canals No. 1 and No. 2 are particularly worthy of mention in this conneétion. Exhi- tors from many of the country distri€ts were greatly assisted through the kindness of the Dire&tors of the Railway, and of the Sproston Dock and Foundry Company, who gave free pagses for exhibits to and from Georgetown, while the Committee undertook the necessary cartage and porterage. A comparison of the number of exhibits under the various classes in the Exhibitions 1893-1896, illustrates very clearly the enormous advance made in the Show of 1896, as may be seen from the following table ;— 3F -408 TIMEHRI. 1893 1894 1895 1896 Class A. Plants _... et 37 108 135 390 » B. Flowers and Floral Decoration ... oes 39 47 45 69 pip chal REDIES USE ocd = 74 168 105 271 » D. Vegetables ak 80 172 125 271 » EE. Economic products (introduced 1894)... 84 71 298 » F. Miscellaneous ene 5 17 12 30 » G. Poultry and Bees ... (introduced 1896) mo 42 96 Total... ase 235 596 535 1,425 It will thus be seen that the exhibits this year were nearly three times as many as those of last year, and that the competition for prizes was therefore necessarily keen. As a fact, although nearly $500 were given in prizes, the number of prizes was out of all proportion below what the competitions deserved. In certain seétions there were 20, 30, 40, and in one extreme case even 60, entries for two prizes, and many of the exhibits were often of a quality fairly entitled to award, It would seem advisable that, instead of one or two fairly large prizes being offered, four or more should be given for the more common produéts, even though the prizes be not of any considerable value. This would certainly lead to greater satisfaction among the general body of exhibitors, and would indeed be more equitable, since many of the exhibits are often but slightly different in quality. The exhibition itself was very largely attended, and but for the threatening weather in the afternoon no doubt larger numbers would have been present. The mowing competition which was initiated by His Lordship Bishop Swaby, proved to be of great interest, and the special thanks ot the Committee are due to His Excellency, the Governor, for allowing the competition to take place in the Government House grounds, The special thanks of the Committee are due to the various gentlemen who aéted as Judges in the various sections: In Class A. Mr, G.S. Jenman, and Mr. R. Ward; in Class B. Mr. James Rodway and Mr, John Junor; in Classes C. and D. Mr, J. F. Waby and Mr. W. T. Binnie ; in Classes E. and F. Hon. B. Howell Jones and Prof. Harrison ; in Class G. Hon, A, R, Gilzean, Mr. H. Garnett and Mr, G, Bagot Report oF SocieTy’s MEETINGS. 40g Steele; in the special exhibit of the Botanic Gardens Dr. Anderson and Mr. John Junor; and in the mowing competition, Mr. A. M. Gilchrist, Mr. L. M. Hill and S. M. Bellairs. The thanks of the Committee are also due to His Lordship Bishop Swaby and Mr G.S. Jenman for the prizes for the mowing competition ($10 00 and $5 00 respeétively), and to Mr. F. V. McConnell for a contribution ($10), towards the expenses of the Show; to Mr. H. J. Gladwin, the Rev. R. Gibson Fisher, the Rev. Father Purcell, the Rev. Father Messini, the Rev. F. C. Glasgow and Mr. S. Ogle, for the the special help given by them in the country distriéts; and to the Rev. Canon Josa for the kind loan of school benches on the day of the exhibition. The Committee would like to make acknowledgment of the special work of many of its members, as for instance, the Chairman who undertook all the onerous duties in connection with the admission of visitors (selling and taking of tickets, etc.,) and refreshments and lighting—all of which were entirely satisfactory. Special recognition must here be made of the excellent exhibition, by the Botanic Gardens, of selected plants, flowering, foliage and economic, designed as an object lesson to illustrate the sizes of pots and plants, and their proper staging, for exhibition purposes—an object lesson that was sadly needed by the general body of exhibitors in the Colony, This exhibit was made by special request from the Committee, not for competition for money prizes, but for a certificate of merit— the exhibit being deserving. The present Committee, while deprecating any idea of diétating to the Committee of 1897, would beg to make the following recommens dations which they believe would further the success of the Annual Show, and add to its greater effe€tiveness :— 1, That the Show be opened for two days, first day, entrance one shilling ; second day sixpence. 2. That no entries be allowed on the day of the Show. 3. That in the case especially, of the more common produéts, instead of two prizes of higher value being given, several smaller prizes be given, even ranging down to twenty five cents. 4. That over and above the sum given as per prize list of the Show, a certain small sum be set apart, to be awarded by the Judges, for other exhibits of merit in each section. 5. That the Society instead of giving merely a guarantee against loss, 3Fa 410 TiIMEHRI. should contribute a definite sum to the funds of the Committee, part of which might be devoted to extending the prize-list. 6. That the Committee provide coops for the exhibition of poultry, such coops being of uniform size, made of skeleton frame and wire netting. 7, That in consideration of the pronounced success of these Shows, and the desirability of beginning arrangements in good time, early application be made to the Government for the usual grant of five hundred dollars ($500) towards the prize-list of the Show. The Committee have further to bring to the notice of the Society the appended special reports on the exhibits of classes E. & F, made by the Judges of those classes ; and, in view of the importance of many of the remarks thereon, and the possible trade and development in many industrial pursuits of the Colony, the Committee recommend that the report be published for general information. J. B. Harrison, Chairman, J. J. Quetcn Secretary. Appended is the report referred to above :— Report of the Judges in Classes E. and F. of the Horticultural and Poultry Show, held in the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown, on August 2oth, 1896 :— It was very evident to us at first sight that a very great increase in the number of the exhibits in these classes had taken place as compared with those shewn in the two preceding years. The following briefly indicates the various points which struck us during our examination of the exhibit. Crass E. Economic Propucts. Section I,—Open tc Amateur Exhibitors. 1. Coffee (cleaned).—The sample to which we awarded first prize was an excellent sample of creole coffee of almost perfect colour and very well cleaned, its only defect being in some irregularity of the sizes of the beans. That to which the second prize was awarded was distinétly inferior to the former, but still was a sample of high class coffee of not such perfeé& colour, and not quite so well cleaned. The other samples exhibited were otf inferior colour, and in many cases the beans were very imperfeétly cleaned. We would impress upon cultivators that if ever this Colony is to again attain eminence in coffee produétion, it is essential for every care to be exercised so as to » REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 4it obtain coffee of good colour, perfeétly cleaned and even in size of bean, especially avoiding the presence of broken beans. 2. Coffee, Liberian (cleaned),—We cannot accord to this the same praise as to the exhibit of creole coffee, The sample to which the first prize was given was distinctly the best shown, but all were inferior to samples we have previously examined of this produé. 8. Cocoa Beans, (cured).—This class of exhibits was distinétly inferior to the similar exhibits in the Show of 1895. In that Show the first prize was given to an exhibit of fairly cleaned regular sized beans, having a fair break, but somewhat dark in colour. The second prize-sample closely approached the first in quality and we had some little difficulty in making an award between them. We are inclined to ascribe the falling off in general quality of this class of exhibits to weather conditions, unfavourable for the produ¢tion of fine full sized beans, 4. Kola,—Three exhibitors only competed. Two which received prizes, sent samples of good colour, well dried, and of fair size. The third, although undoubtedly the finest sample as regards size of the nut, unfortunately had been spoilt in colour during curing. 5. Rice-—No difficulty arose in adjudicating the first prize in this class, The highest award went to an excellent sample of cleaned rice, good in colour, large, and even in grain, and containing but few broken grains. There was more difficulty in awarding the second prize, which was finally given to a sample of rice large and fairly even in grain, but of slightly inferior colour. Several good samples sent were disqualified from insufficiency of amount exhibited. In future exhibitions, we trust that more prizes than two will be offered for this very important produét. We noticed several preparations of rice which were exhibited and regretted that it was nct in our power to givesmall awards for the same. 6. Cornmeal.—A most difficult class to judge. The exhibits as a rule were of high merit, and we awarded the prizes to the exhibits of bright coloured well prepared meal, the relative merit of the two being praéti- cally determined by brightness of colour. 7. Plantain Meal.—An almost bewildering mass of exhibits were shown under this head, the majority of which showed the obje&tionable greyness so common in samples of this produét. The prizes were awarded to two samples of almost equal merit, on both of which the greyness was conspicuous by its absence, the meals being of an inviting pale cream colour. Both were of good flavour, the one receiving the first prize being somewhat more regular in texture, If meals of such Ala TIMEHRI. high quality could be produced in quantity we are assured that an important future may be before this produdt. 8. Cassava Meal Farine.—Again an excellent show of exhibits. Many competitors seemed to be in doubt as to what farine was and sent in samples of cassava starch instead, while others were in doubt as to how little weighed five pounds and in consequence were disqualified. We awarded the first prize to a sample of excellent colour and flavour and uniform in its grain. 9. Arrowroot.—The samples to which the prizes were awarded showed conclusively that arrowroot of excellent quality and of irreproachable colour can be produced in British Guiana. We have seen few samples which have excelled in quality that to which we awarded the first prize. 10. Tapioca,—An excellent sample was exhibited, clear in colour and regular in grain, to which we awarded the first prize. 11. Tous-les Mois.—Never a taking looking starch, the samples exhibited did not add to its reputation. 12. Other Starches——A large number of exhibits, many of very fair quality, The prizes were awarded to some fine samples of apparently cassava starch whilst others were of so near equality that we highly commended them. 153. Vanilla,—Two samples exhibited, unfortunately the finer of the two was spoilt by the oil with which it had been dressed having turned rancid, 14. Honey.—An unsatisfactory exhibit, the samples were either flavour- less, sour, or bitter. 15. Tobacco.—This class of exhibits showed us that as last year the curing of tobacco is not understood in this Colony. A faint odour of ammonia, the origin of which is open to conjecture, is not an improve- ment to leaf tobacco; a mouldy condition again is not usually con- sidered to be typical of merit in tobacco, and these two appeared to be the points at which the majority of the exhibitors aimed. The first prize only was awarded and to a sample in which these points were not present, 16. Cayenne Pepper.—A sample of very fair quality was awarded the prize. 17. Guinea Pepper.—Several excellent samples were shown, and we had much difficulty in making our award, 18. Black Pepper.—One exhibit only, of fine quality. 19. Essence of Pepper.—No exhibit. REPORT OF SOCIETY'S MEETINGS. 413 20, Pimento.—Several samples, all of very inferior merit. 21. Dried Ginger.—No exhibit. 22. Pickles. Here we had difficulty in making our award, not on 23. Hot ome account of merit. The exhibit on the whole was -most disappointing. 24. Chutnee.—Another unsatisfactory class of exhibits; we did not taste a sample approaching in quality the chutnee often sold here by coolies, 25. Curry Powder.—The prize was awarded to a very fair sample of good flavour and colour. 26. Guava Felly.—An unsatisfa&tory show, the jellies exhibited, with the exception of that awarded the prize, were cloudy and dark in colour. The prize sample was clear and bright, of good flavour and colour. 27, Other Fellies.) Praé&tically no competition. We missed the ex- 28. Fams. } of our local fruits. 29. Marmalade.—Not a very satisfactory exhibit, the best sample containing too much sugar, and too little orange. 30. Stewed Guava.—An unsatisfaftory exhibit. 31. Cassareep.—A large exhibit of dark coloured preparations in bottles, (some of which were fermenting), but a very small one of cassareep. Apparently any dark coloured saccharine liquid, even the molasses from second sugars, was considered by many of the exhibitors to be worthy of the name of cassareep. cellent jellies that can be prepared from some 32. Prepared Chocolate.—Two of the samples for competition were of excellent flavour, but the one to which the second prize was awarded contained an excess of sugar. A sample of creole chocolate, (without sugar), was exhibited, but unfortunately, the beans from which it had been prepared had been scorched during roasting. 33. Bees’ Wax.—No exhibit. 34. Crushed Feed.—In last year’s Show an excellent exhibit was made of cattle, horse, and poultry feed, prepared from Colony produéts only. This year only a vile wet fermenting mass was shown, better calculated for cattle poison than cattle feed. We are desirous in conne€tion with this class to draw attention to the very excellent exhibits of Messrs. Gaskin & Co., and of the Mercurius Cigar Co. The exhibits of various preparations of cocoa and chocolate by the former were worthy of the highest commendation, and remem- bering that the flayour of cocoa and chocolate, skilfully prepared in the AI4 . TIMEHRI. country where the cocoa is grown, is far superior to that of the same preparations made from beans which have run the risk of mouldiness, fermentation, etc., during transit on board ship, we desire to draw . the Committee’s special attention to the exhibit and recommend that a special award of an honorary nature be conferred on the exhibitors. We were struck with the excellent exhibit of Colony-made cigars shown by the Mercurius Cigar Company, and in view of the importance of the venture to the Colony at large and of the encouragement which the establishment of such an industry in our midst offers to the careful growth and curing of tobacco in the Colony we recommend that a special award of an honorary nature be conferred on the exhibitors. Section II. Open to Artizans and Labourers only. 35. Preserves..—A fair exhibit, superior to anything of a similar nature shown in the amateur section, was awarded a first prize. 36. Fellies—No award. Same defeéts as noticed in the amateur section. 37. Pickles or Hot Sauce.—The samples exhibited were not of such good quality as we expected to find they would be. 38 Coffee (cleaned).,—The cleaning of all the samples shown was defeStive and the colour anything but good. A fine looking sample of pea-berry coffee was exhibited of very good colour, but upon examina- tion by the Judges, the lower layers in the box were found to be of very inferior quality to the upper, and as in addition it did not weigh as much as five pounds, it did not receive the award which its surface appearence would have entitled it to. 39. Liberian Coffee.—No exhibit. 4o. Cocoa.—The first prize was awarded to an exhibit from the Berbice river. The beans were large and full but somewhat imper- feétly cured. The exhibitor had apparently attempted, with but little success, to improve the quality of his exhibit by colouring the beans, If these beans had been better cured, their size and regularity would have made them the best exhibited in the show. As it was, we considered them as inferior in merit only to the beans which were prized in the Amateur section. The sample to which the second prize was awarded, although of fair beans, was unsatisfactorily cleaned. 41. Rice.-—Some excellent samples were exhibited, the one to which the first prize was adjudicated being surpassed only by the one which received the first prize in the Amateur class. Most of the exhibits were somewhat marred by the presence of broken grains, REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 415 42. Corn.—The samples shown were of fine quality. 43. Starch.—Samples prized were of excellent colour and general quality. 44. Leaf Tobacco.—No exhibit. 45. Raw Cotton (cleaned ).—The prizes were awarded to two samples of excellent quality, of long staple, good colour, and very cleanly picked. A sample shown in the carded state was disqualified as it weighed much less than 3 lbs. Class V.—Miscellaneous. 1. Flower Pots.—A second prize only awarded to pots made of con- crete. We considered that the desire of the Committee in offering the prize was to encourage the manufa¢ture of clay flower pots. 2. Orchid Baskets=—An exhibit in this class much inferior to that of last year. 3. Plant Baskets.—One exhibit only could be considered as fairly coming under this heading. 4. Plant Tubs or Boxes.—A very inferior exhibit. 5. Piece of Bamboo or Rustic Furniture.—The first prize was awarded to a very excellent exhibit of rustic furniture, the second toa merito- rious exhibit of bamboo work. 6. Hive for Bees.—No exhibit. Several specimens of perverted ingenuity and patience were exhibited in this section such as elaborate places of confinement (and torture) for birds, elaborate arrangements of articles in narrow necked bottles, etc. When we see these we can only regret that the very evident abili- ties and great patience of their makers have not been directed into more useful channels. On the whole we must congratulate the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society on the very evident success of their endeavours in the encouragement of the exhibition of Economic produéts. We con- sider the articles shown in this class with few exceptions to have been superior in quality to those exhibited in former years, and the manner in which the prizes were competed for in many of the classes of exhibits point to there being several Minor Industries in the Colony to which attention has been given. While the quality of the articles exhibited, as far as regards those due to conditions of cultivation, was in most cases satisfa€tory, we consider that in the majority of cases far better 3G 416 TIMEHRI. results will be obtained when more care is devoted to their produétion in a state fit to meet the somewhat critical demands of foreign markets. B. HowELt JonEs, Chairman of the Agricultural Committee, Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society. J. B. Harrison, Government Analyst. Georgetown, Otober, 1896. The Secretary read the following report in reference to the Tobacco Prize Essay :— Georgetown, O&tr. 21st, 1896, To the President and Members of the R. A. & C. Society. Gentlemen,— On behalf of the Hon. E. C. Luard and Messrs. G. S. Jenman and L. J. Paddenburg, the Judges appointed to examine the Essays on the Cultivation and Manufacture of Tobacco, I have the honour to report as follows :— After careful consideration they have decided to award the Prize to the Essay by Mr. H. D. Van Ree (‘ Axiom”) and they would like to mention that Mr. Chas. A. Farrant (“ Tobacco Smoker”) ran the prize- winner very close. Of the eleven Essays received, two by Messrs. R. K. Shiells and C. Linden Burnham were disqualified from non- compliance with the conditions, their names being writter upon the Essays instead of a nom-de-plume. The Judges regret that none of the Essays came up to expectation, and none really satisfied the conditions of competition. I have, &c., J. RODWAY, Asst. Secretary, A Government communication in reference to the Columbian awards was read, Specimens of the Diploma and Medal were laid upon the table and the President stated that those entitled to them might obtain them on application. A further Government communication in reference to the Paris Exhibition of 1900 was read, RepoRT OF SociEty’s MEETINGS. 417 The President suggested that the matter might be re- ferred to the Committee of Correspondence. Mr. Luke M. Hill pointed out that it would be desirable for that Committee to have some idea of the views of the Government as to the necessary funds. The President said that what was now wanted was an expression of opinion as to the desirability or otherwise of the colony being represented at Paris. The matter was referred to the Committee of Corres- pondence. A similar communication in reference toan Exhibition in Tennessee in 1897 was referred to the same Com- mittee. The thanks of the Society was accorded for the fol- lowing donations :— To the Library—from Dr. E. Pinaud; 4 pamphlets on the Boundary Question. To the Museum— Piece of Bullet rote | shewing healed bark .G. S. Jenman. after bleeding Yaromanni Seeds—) i Seok said to be poisonous J oie ; Assortment of Insetts... ..G, S. Simms. Mongoose... as . ...Capt. Davis. Rose, Thistle & Sham- rock Shilling } ... 4, D. Mackay. Stiver ay An ...S. M, Bellairs. White winged et ...F. V. McConnell. and Bush-shrikes Galls (2)... ap ; ...R. Cozier. Giant Toad from Barima ...R. Allan, Godwit or Marlin... ...H. L. Humphrys. Cornmeal from Chas.- } «J. J. da Silva, town Factory Jed. 0e Bure 3G2 418 . TIMEHRI. a Mimosa seeds ... Master Simpson. Matamata Tortoise ...Potaro os «|. M. London. Encrusted Fish-hook from stomach of Rea ...Capt. Simmons, Snapper Alligator... ses -.G. S. Jenman, White-winged Plover... ...Rev. C. R. S. Pike. Minerals eae «Cornwall ,.. ..H. A, L, Rowe. - Young Labba ae -.-Hon, B. H. Jones. Branches cut by Saw- yer beetle. Stone Im- plements and Ironcon- Dee cretion Small moths ... os «A. Gordon. Fragments of Human Bones from old ste: | Nonpareil ... A. C. Ross, ment. The Assistant Secretary called attention to some speci- mens of Ramie lying on the table, which had been grown by the Hon. B. Howell Jones, and mentioned that the plant would only grow well on a very rich soil. The President stated that just before leaving England he had received through the Colonial Company, the following notes on Cane-farming in Demerara by Mr, F. I. Scard. It was agreed that the paper should be published and brought up for discussion at the next meeting :— There are many conditions associated with Demerara which place cane farming on quite a different footing to this industry as it exists in other cane-growing countries. Want of natural drainage, rendering absolutely necessary an artificial system which is not in the power, if in the will, of the peasant farmer to carry out individually, and the means of transport whereby carriage to the outside of each “‘ empolder” becomes tedious and laborious, are the principal of these, requiring co- operation for their remedy, a serious drawback when the disposition of the class it is hoped to utilise for the purpose is considered. It would seem, therefore, that the only way out of the difficulty would REPORT OF SOCIETY'S MEETINGS. A419 be for the existing estates to give out plots for farming, maintaining the drainage and transport, and contracting with the farmers for the subse- quent purchase of the canes thus grown. There are, however, many objections to a system of this kind. The utter unreliability of the average labourer where a contract of this sort is concerned, the difficulty in securing proper cultivation, leading to deterio- ration of the soil, the impossibility of weighing or dealing separately with small quantities of canes with the present estates’ mode of transport, coupled with the general disturbance of the discipline of the estate from the coming and going of uncontrolled outside labour (for the employment of inside labour to this end is not to be considered), are points which present most serious obstacles to the development of a satisfactory system of estates’ cane-farming. I de not think, therefore, that much can be hoped for in this direétion, but I do consider that much may be done to utilise the back lands of the incorporated villages for the purpose. Recent legislation has effected something in the direction of the self. government of these communities, and the present machinery, with pressure and some help from the Government authorities, should be quite sufficient to provide the drainage and transport facilities necessary. The advantages of the villager growing canes on his own land would be great. There would be complete independence of both farmer and manufacturer, the former carrying his canes when and to whom he liked, with no contract to lead to inevitable trouble and probable tedious litigation. In fact, the only question between buyer and seller would be the mutual arrangement of price, easily settled on some recognised basis. In this scheme the transport difficulty comes in. No network of roads, making carriage in any direction easy, exists, and the produce of any one “empolder” must pass througk to the front before it can be transported to another. At present the villagers bring such provisions as are grown to the public road in “bateaux,” using the waterways of the village, Of course, canes could be transported in this way; but it would be far better for each village to have a very light tram-line along its “ middle- walk,” the cost of which would be small. Every villager could thus convey his load of canes to the public road for transference to his donkey or mule cart, and thence to the factory for sale. On the part of the purchasing estate all that would have to be provi- 420 - TIMEHRI. ded would be a scale, large enough to weigh a mule cart and load, placed at an “easy distance from, and accessible to, the public road, and sufficiently near the estate’s transport trench to allow of the bought canes being loaded in punts by the estate’s labour. The above forms an outline of the shape I consider cane-farming should first take in Demerara. Speaking roughly the village area is probably about one- fifth of the estates’ cultivation, and there is no reason why one-half of this should not be in cane cultivation. There is at present no inducement to grow provisions to any ex- tent, the market being already overstocked, and the growing of canes would soon be recognized as a profitable industry by the villagers, provided the scheme be properly organised and worked. At the out- set, of course, difficulties would have to be overcome, not the least of which being distrust of the purchasing planter, and the demoralization of the villagers induced by the gold industry. If, however, the industry is to be established at all I feel that hope of success will only be on the lines I have laid down. ~ A scheme of this description cannot be started by the planters alone. All that these could do would be, to express their willingness to buy the canes. In fact, it is the Government who should take prominent action in the matter, and to this end, the Royal Agricultural Society would be the proper body to approach it with a carefully conceived scheme; which, I imagine, that there would be every disposition on the part of the Government to assist in carrying out. Even were only canes sufficient for 10,000 tons sugar annually grown the addition to the value of the colony’s exports would amount to $500,000, more than half of which would go into the hands of the peasantry. Great, however, as would be the dire&t advantage derived from the distribution of such a sum among the villagers, a far more important result would be obtained in the habit of honest labour which would be gradually acquired by them. A class that will not work for others will frequently do so for themselves, especially when the fruits of their labour are so quickly and praétically apparent as they would be under a properly conduéted cane-farming system. The President also said that from his taking some small specimens of woods which had been kindly supplied to him by Mr. Quelch before his departure, he had come into communication with a firm of timber merchants who REPORT OF SOCIETY’s MEETINGS. 421 were desirous of obtaining sample logs of some of the woods of the colony. He had brought the matter before the meeting thinking that perhaps the Society might be able to dosomething to advertise the colony timber. Mr. Cunningham said he had done a little business in several woods, but his experience was not favourable to consignments. In the case of greenheart, where a vessel was chartered to carry nothing else, and where the freight was low, there was not the same difficulty as with a few logs of other kinds. Then, there was the difficulty of splitting ; he thought that possibly the timber would arrive in better condition if first sawn into two-inch planks. The Secretary suggested that it might be possible to get one of the shippers of timber to include a few speci- men logs, and that in this way the freight would be much reduced. Mr. Luke M. Hill spoke in favour of the Society risk- ing a little money to advertise the colony woods, and mentioned the panels which had been sent to Chicago and afterwards to the Imperial Institute. The Hon. N. D. Davis suggested that tables of colony wood suitable for smoking rooms, &c., might be made, and Mr. Cunningham promised to prepare specimens. The President stated that when in England he had received a communication in reference to the supply of Mora timber for pavements, and to the possibility of the colony being able to supply that wood to compete with other kinds from Australia. It was finally agreed on the suggestion of Mr. Har- greaves to postpone the matter until the next meeting with a view to obtaining further information. The meeting then terminated, 422 TIMEHRI. Meeting held November 19th—Hon. Cavendish Boyle, C.M.G., President, in the Chair. Members present 17. Ele@tion.—Associates: Messrs. Thomas K. Rowe, Arthur C, Adams, and G. R. Macfarlane. The Secretary reported on behalf of the Direétors that in accordance with the resolutions of the previous meeting, efforts had been made to arrange for a trial shipment of furniture woods. He had written to two firms in reference to such a shipment, and had also enquired as to the price at which the logs could be delivered in Georgetown, the lowest offer being 24 cents per cubic foot. The President said he understood that the freight per Direct Steamer would be about 32 cents per foot, and that therefore if the wood realized 3s. 6d. 1t would pay. By covering the ends with concrete, splitting might be prevented. It was finally agreed that 20 logs of Ducaliballi, ro of Purpleheart, and 4 each of Hoobooballi and Locust be procured, the Direétors being requested to arrange the matter. The following report of the Committee of Correspon- dence was read :— The Museum, Novy. 19th, 1896. R T. A. Daly, Esq., Hon. Seéty, R. A, & C. Society. Sir,—I have the honour to state that, at a meeting of the Committee of Correspondence held on the 18th inst., the two communications which had been received from the Government with reference to the representation of the colony at foreign exhibitions, and which had been referred tothe Committee at the last meeting of the Society, were considered, and I was instructed to report— ist. That, with reference to the Tennessee Centennial International REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 2 423 Exhibition, to be opened at Nashville, May 1st, 1897, there would not be sufficient time for an official representation; but that public notifi- cation of the exhibition should be given for the benefit of private firms and individuals, who might desire to participate 2nd, That, with regard to the Universal International Exhibition, to be held in Paris 1900, at which the Home Government are already pledged to be represented, it was desirable that the colony should take part, and that a space of 5,000 sq. ft. be asked for, for the purpose. I have, &c., J. J. QUELCH, Hon. Secretary. Mr. Luke M, Hill moved, and Mr. Ai‘neas D. Mackay seconded, that the report be adopted. Mr. Jacob Conrad spoke of the question of funds, on which the President stated that all they had to do at present was to give an opinion as to the desirability or otherwise of the colony being represented. The Hon. N. D. Davis asked whether the colony would be likely to derive any benefit from the Paris Exhibition. They had been represented at several, but he doubted whether the results were commensurate with the expenditure. Mr. Kirke agreed with Mr. Davis; he himself had represented the colony at the Calcutta Exhibition, but he could not say that any material advantage had been derived. The Hon. B. Howell Jones said the sugar and other products of the colony were excluded from France, and he could therefore see no reason for exhibiting them there. The President having asked for a vote on the adop- tion of the Report, it was rejeéted by a majority of one (7 for and 8 against.) The Secretary laid upon the table three illuminated 3H 424 TIMEHRI. Certificates which had been prepared by Mrs. L, M. Hill, to be presented to the Mercurius Cigar Fa€tory, Messrs. Gaskin & Co, and the Botanic Gardens. He said they were very much indebted to Mrs. Hill for her kindness in preparing such beautiful works of art. The President then presented the Certificate for the Mercurius Fa€tory to Mr. L. J. Paddenburg.. A vote of thanks was accorded to Mrs. Luke M. Hill for preparing the Certificates, on behalf of whom Mr. Hill thanked the members for their kind appreciation. Copies of the report on the recent Horticultural Show were laid on the table and the recommendations of the Committee were read. Professor J. B, Harrison gave notice of motion that effe€t should be given to sections 5, 6, and 7 of the recommendations, to be brought up at the next meeting. In conne@tion with Mr. Scard’s notes on Cane Farming, the President read a letter from Mr. Scard expressing his regret that he could not attend the meeting. Mr. Jacob Conrad moved and Mr. Kirke seconded, that the paper be referred to the Agricultural Committee. Mr. Kirke spoke of the difficulties the villagers had to contend with on account of floods, The Hon. B. Howell Jones said that some of the estates on the East Coast were willing to buy canes, and he himself could always take as many as might be brought to his plantation. The difficulty here was the want of conneétion between the canals of the villages and those of the plantations, and few of them would be willing to pay for such conneétions from the rates, The difficulty with the late Mr. Russell’s scheme at La REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 425 Bonne Intention was the polariscope estimation of the juice in the villagers’ canes ; he thought a uniform price per ton of the canes would be better, As for the drain- ing of the villages, the difficulties were not greater than on the estates. The back lands of the villages were charged too high a rent—$1‘oo an acre per month; this was too ‘much for cane land, for it would swallow up the profit. He then went on to speak of cotton farming, which was once such an important industry in the colony. He did not see why, if it could be grown in the Southern States at the present low prices, the people on the East Coast could not grow it. The Hon. Mr. Gilzean spoke in favour of the paper being referred to the Agricultural Committee. He had had a great deal to do with the buying of canes at La Bonne Intention and thought that evidence should be taken from planters and villagers before anything were done. After Mr. W. Cunningham had spoken of the wire trolley system as a means of getting over the difficulty of transferring the canes, it was agreed to refer the matter to the Agricultural Committee. The Hon. Mr. Jones called attention to some specimens of canes lying on the table, which had been destroyed by leaf fungus. Professor Harrison said that cane-fields when affected produced less sugar, but the disease was not very des- truétive. Mr, Jones also gave an account of his experience in the cultivation of Ramie. The annexed letter to the chairman, on jute cultiva- tion, was referred to the Agricultural Committee :— 3H2 | 426 TIMEHRI. : Trevelyan Buildings, Corporation Street, Manchester, England, 3rd November, 1896. Sir,—It being my intention to endeavour to introduce the cultivation of jute into British Guiana, I venture to ask that your Society give me all the help towards this end that lies in their power. Together with this I send you a little sheet that fully describes the growing of jute as it is practised in India, and by Parcel Post a small package of jute seed which I beg you to have planted, and if practicable, treated according to instructions herewith and report the results to me. I also propose to apply to the Government of British Guiana for a concession of land suitable for jute growing, and in the event of this being given me, | will at once proceed to prepare the land for planting, and as soon as possible cultivate it. As there can be no doubt that the jute industry, once established on a firm basis, will be a substantial benefit tothe colony, I trust the Govern- ment on their part will see their way to treat me liberally in the matter, and that your Society on their part will render me whatever assistance they consistently can. I will be deeply indebted if you will let me know to whom I shall apply in respect to the above mentioned grant of land. Hoping to have your consideration, and tendering you my thanks in advance, 1 am, etc., NORMAN FORSTER. The Chairman, the R. A. and C, Society. Georgetown, Demerara. The thanks of the Society were accorded for the following donations :— To the Library—5 Files of the Guzana Chronicle 1820, 1821, 1822, 1833-4 and 1840; 1 file Guana Herald 1842-3 from Mr. Jas, Thomson; Year-book of U.S. De- partment of Agriculture, 1895 ; from Mr. A. J. Patterson ; Surinam Almanac 1897, from Editor Suriname; Pam- pblet on Tobacco Culture from Mr. G. E. Tuckett. To the Museum—A moth from Mrs, A. H. Thomson ; Guinea corn (red) from Hon. B. H. Jones; a blue crane REPORT OF SOCIETY'S MEETINGS. 427 from Mr. H. L. Humphrys; a stone implement from Bahia; a mottled Buzzard from Mr. G. S. Jenman; a Quaak from Mr. G. S. Jenman’; a rare Makushi waist belt from Mrs. F. L. Quick; piece of a beam from H.M.S. Victory from Mr. F. A. Conyers; antique mask of Negro face; seeds, inse€ts and sticks, from Mr. F. R. Paulie; inseéts, pottery and stone implement from Mr. J. L. Theobald; ball from stomach of cow from Mr. G. A. Fraser ; colle€tion of inseéts from Mr. T. S. Hargreaves ; abnormal egg of fowl from Mr. R. Case; inseéts of various species from Mr. A. Watson. Mr. Quelch gave a short account of some of the migra- tory birds of the colony, specimens of which were laid upon the table. The Secretary called the attention of the members to the fact that the next meeting was the Anniversary meeting for the ele€tion of Office-bearers for the ensuing year. The meeting then terminated. ADs SA Meeting held December roth.--Hon. Cavendish Boyle, C.M.G., President, in the Chair. Members present 32. Eleétions—Weméber: Dr. F. T. Wills. Associate: Mr. J. S. E. Brookfield, In conneétion with the trial shipment of furniture woods the Hon, Secretary reported that he had ordered 20 logs Ducaliballi, 2 logs Wamara, ro logs Purpleheart, 4 logs Hoobooballi, and 2 logs Locust. He had written to Messrs. Foy, Morgan & Co., informing them of the proposed shipment, and had received a quotation for freight from the agents of the London steamers. 428 TIMEHRI. The annexed communication from Messrs. Park & : Cunningham was read, the specimen table being open to inspection :— Georgetown, Demerara, December oth, 1896. Thomas Daly, Esqr., Honorary Secretary. Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society. Dear Sir,—In accordance with the request of the above Society, we have much pleasure in submitting for inspection the sample ‘‘ Table” made of Colonial woods, suitable for a Club or Smoking Room. This table consists of the following woods: Hoobooballi, Simarupa, Crabwood, Letter-wood, Dukala-balli, Bania, Purple heart, Cedar, and Itikibooroballi. The woods at right and left of table are inlaid so as to represent the Union Jack, the idea of construction is that for export, the legs and uprights can be packed in top, forming small package. The price polished and finished as sample ... wee «9 35 00 5 », Unpolished and packed for shipment ... +. 3200 For orders of half a dozen or more, discount of 10 per cent. would be allowed off the above prices. You will please note the table contains in a finished condition the woods the Society intend exporting on trial. We are, etc., PARK & CUNNINGHAM. Captain Duncan spoke in praise of the table, and thought it desirable that it should be forwarded with the timbers to show their appearance when worked up. The President thought the great question was where could it be sent so that it might be seen to advantage. Several places, including the Hotel Metropole, having been suggested, Mr. F. A. Winter said that Captain Duncan’s suggestion might be taken as a notice of motion, and be considered at the next meeting. The Hon. N. D. Davis thought that several such tables should be sent to Clubs, Hotels, and the Colonial Insti- tute, also that one might be kept in the Reading Room, REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 429 and another in the Museum to be shewn to visitors to the colony, The Hon. B. Howeil Jones said that the members appeared to forget that a very fine colleétion of the woods of the colony was on show at the Kew Museum, where persons interested might always inspect them. Yet, he had never heard that this exhibit had done any good to the colony. He had no doubt that if the Society presented a number of such tables as that exhibited, they would be accepted with great pleasure, but he doubted whether the colony would derive any benefit. Mr, Cunningham would be able to tell them that our woods laboured under the objeétion of being difficult to work on account of their hardness, Mr, Cunningham expressed his high opinion of the excellence of the woods of the colony, and said that although difficult to work they lasted so much longer than many of those used for furniture, that the advan- tage in the long run was obvious. Mr, Quelch having spoken of the hardness of some of the woods taken to Chicago, the President said that they might take Captain Duncan’s suggestion as a notice of motion, meanwhile the Society might take the one table and consider the advisability of getting others to send away. Captain Duncan agreed to bring up the matter at the next meeting, Professor Harrison asked that his motion in regard to Sections 5 to 7 of the recommendations in the report. of the Horticultural Show be altered by leaving Nos, 5 to6 until another meeting as they might take time to discuss, He therefore moved that Section 7 be adopted, which having been seconded by Mr, Bellairs, was carried unanimously, 430 TIMEHRI. The Secretary read the annexed communication from the Chamber of Commerce :— The Chamber of Commerce of the City of Geoegetown, Georgetown, Demerara, 5th December, 1896. Sir,—I have the honour by direction of the Council of the Chamber of Commerce, to transmit to you copy of a letter dated 18th November, from the Hon. Secretary of the Antigua Branch of the Leeward Islands Agricultural and Commercial Society, also the copy of the Antigua Standard therein referred to. 2. The Council views with favour the proposal to hold a Conference on the subject of the Sugar Bounties, but it is of opinion that the matter could be better dealt with by your Society, embracing as it does both the Commercial and Agricultural interests. 3. I am writing to Mr. Watts to inform him of the aétion taken by the Council in this matter. I have, &c., G. WYATT, Secretary. R. T. A. Daly, Esq., Hon. Sec. Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society. Antigua Branch, Leeward Islands, Agricultural and Commercial Society. Antigua, 18th Novr. 96. Dear Sir,—I beg to“forward herewith a copy of the “ Antigua Standard,” aud to direct your attention to the report of a public meeting, and to a resolution relating to a Conference on the Bounty Question. To put the matter in a definite form :— Do you think that it is possible, and desirable, to send delegates from your Colony to a Conference to be held in Barbados on, say January 11th, or January 25th 1897? If so, much time will be saved, if steps be taken to arrange preliminaries, such as the selection of delegates and prepar- ing their instructions, without delay. It is desired that you should make this proposal as widely known as possible, in order that the Conference, if held, should be thoroughly representative, and we shall feel obliged if you will kindly bring the REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 431 NRE O18 2 question to the notice of any other public bodies or influential individuals, whose assistance you think will further the proposal. I am, etc., (Sgd.)} FRANCIS WATTS, Hon, Sec, The Secretary, Chamber of Commerce, British Guiana. He said that the letter, with one of the same tenor to the Society, had been brought before the Dire€tors, but as it was thought that a Sugar Commission would be coming out from England at an early date, the matter of sending delegates might be postponed. It was for the meeting to give their opinion, Captain Duncan thought if any aétion was taken it should be done at once; as for the Commission they were not quite sure what had been arranged. The Hon. E, C. Luard thought further information necessary before sending delegates. Mr. R. G. Duncan said that it was almost certain that the Sugar Commission would arrive in the West Indies some time in January; the question of a Conference might be therefore very well postponed meanwhile. If the Commission did not come here first it would probably arrive in February ; then would be the time for a Con- ference of West Indian Planters and perhaps their representations would be stronger. At the same time he did not think a Conference would be of much use, as the position of Barbados and the other islands was different from British Guiana. Here they would have to fight the battle on their own lines. The Hon. Mr, Davis thought the place for a Confer- ence was London. ' On the motion of Mr. Luke M. Hill, it was agreed 3! 432 TIMEHRI. that the Secretary be instru€ted to reply expressing the views of Mr. R. G, Duncan. A Government Communication was read informing the Society that it had been decided that the Colony should not be officially represented at the Paris Ex- hibition of 1goo. The President then gave the following valedi€tory adddress :— Gentlemen,—It seems to me hardly possible that a year can have passed or nearly passed since your then President, my honourable friend, Mr. Luard, paid me the great honour of nominating me for your approval as his successor in the Chair of this important Society ; and full of incident as that year has been, it has proved too short for the accom. plishment of the many wishes, the many aspirations and desires with which I most diffidently accepted this high office at your hands, At the end of April last circumstances over which I had no control necessitated my absence from the Colony for some four months, but knowing that in Mr. Luard, your Vice-President, you had a gentleman whose active interest in the Society’s affairs and in its welfare, whose great experience and know- ledge had long been fully proved, I felt that my absence could not be counted as detrimental in any way, but as of advantage rather to the So- ciety. The year now so shortly coming toa close has, as I have observed, been full, unusually full, of incident for our Colony, and there has been much to cause grave apprehensions to those whose life interests are centered within its borders. Many of us at this year’s opening viewed the general situation, I think, as more hopeful—as fraught with brighter possibilities than the immediately preceding periods; and the sur- rounding circumstances in January last would seem, in my humble opinion, to have justified that view. There was a better prospect for the market of our staple produce ; there was the certain knowledge that this great possession of Her Majesty, the only one in South America, was attracting wider interest—was becoming more generally known than n all the years during which it has rejoiced in being an integral por- tion of our Queen’s great Empire—on the political horizon, there was a strong feeling of security and an unquestioning confidence in those to whom the affairs of our Sovereign’s realm were intrusted, and that such feeling and such confidence were in no way misplaced has, I think, been REPORT OF SOCIETY’s MEETINGS. 433 abundantly proved by subsequent events. But both within our own borders, and from the outside in connection with your agricultural and commercial undertakings, there came, as the months sped by, changes in the situation unforeseen at the commencement of the year. The heavy strain of past years began to tell on the community, and a more or less serious financial crisis seemed imminent—and then, out of the com- parative calm of foreign skies, if not out of their blue, there was added a bolt in the shape of a yet heavier handicap on your chief product, an additional weight of advantage to foreign growers, and of disadvantage to those here, against which you are yet manfully but, as I believe not hope- lessly, struggling. And, gentlemen, whilst it may be said that there isa limit to all such uphill battles, I do not think that despondency need now take hold of you, for the news which we have recently received would seem to point clearly to this fa&t, namely, that your wants if not your woes have been lately attracting the attention of English States- men and English Pressmen, and we have been led to understand that under the auspices of the government of the Mother Country an enquiry is to be held into this important subject by specially appointed Com- missioners who are preparing to start upon their voyage to these parts. May their advent, may their labours, finda solution of your difficulties ; find the means of saving an important industry and a large amount of invested capital from ruin and destruétion, and secure to many thou- sands of Her Majesty’s loyal subje&ts their means of honest and legitimate livelihood. That, gentlemen, is my most earnest hope and, within limitations, my sanguine expectation, It is my most earnest hope, for I could not but grieve, deeply grieve, to see so important an industry fail. It has been said that the sugar grower has been selfish, has resisted and retarded development, has lived for himself, and has taken the life blood of the Colony’s wealth and disbursed it or stored it away from the Colony’s shores. I do not hold entirely with that view. The sugar grower for years and years has been the mainstay of this community. His energy and his enterprise has brought hither every modern improvement in the way of machinery and has found the means, assisted albeit by the community as a whole, to supply the meagreness of local labour, by a system of immigration from outside. And I venture to say incidentally here that the course pursued in that conneétion entitles him, entitles our Colony to consideration, for are we not thereby the means of finding employment under regulations and a system of beneficent care and fostering control for thousands of the aka 434 TIMEHRI. Empire’s subjeéts who might, perchance, at this very moment be starving and destitute, or if not,at least a cause of grave apprehension to the Government of their native land. And before passing from the subject of labour, bear with me onemoment, Your history shows me that after a certain event generally known by the name of the Emancipation—the labour supply in the then sugar growing colonies became short and required extending, replenishing. Now this is no place, nor is it for me to go into the why and the wherefore of that effecét—it was an effect, and it had to be met and dealt with just as the effeé& of the system which now presses on you so heavily will be, I hope, met and dealt with. But to those who without looking very deeply may question what has gone be- fore in connection with labour—nay, might now question present arrange- ments—I would mention some words which I recently read and which are to the effeét that whilst the idea of men being bound to work for work’s sake may be without foundation, yet all men must contribute to the support of the State within the confines of which they reside, and which gives them the benefit of prote&tion in peaceful idleness. I believe, gentlemen, that without any assisted labour introduction we should have had no Planters, without any Planters we should have had but few sea and river defences—without sea and river defences we should have had towns and communities settled into the depths of mud flats, and when that undesirable condition had obtained, we should have found the peaceful remnant driven aback, and yet aback into unconserved and unirrigated regions where even the semi-idleness of provision growing would not have kept the wolf ot hunger from their benabs, or the over- whelming flood of waters, and the evil effects of periodic drought from their unproteéted acres, But I would not wish to be thought as crystal- lising on our crystal industry only. We have wide fields for adventure and development, and we have possibilities of success apart from that industry. The tyre man is crying out to us to send him Guiana-grown rubber. The Bovril man will, in the no far distant future, clamber over the Beef Extraétors in his desire to purchase the herds which one can foresee will roam and fatten on our upland Savannahs, The timber broker will be here and there at the inland depéts which will spring up round railways making and to be made, eager to buy the hardwood wealth of our forests, and the adventurer who seeks for the precious metal our lands have held long before Raleigh’s days, wil! become amongst the well-to-do men of the earth, This is no day dream, gentlemen— it is al] within the bounds of our Colony’s REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 435 possibilities; it is all here for us as the outcome of peace within well defined borders, the result of the influx of capital which must follow on the attainment of that looked for, long deferred, and most desirable end. The influx of capital: we all desire it—the community would welcome it, but permit me one little thought thereon. And that is, when it arrives, as assuredly it must—let not those who now have at their hands undeveloped forest and savannah wealth, above and below the soil, be astonished or disheartened if the capitalist who ventures his cash should seek to take its usufruct or a fair proportion of it to his home beyond the sea. In plain words, though we want men and we want money, the man who finds the money, if he be from the outside, will stay there and we must not be surprised if in the success of his adventures in the development of our Colony’s resources, an appreciable modicum of his gain should leave our shores, But after all that is but asmall matter, for in the golden future weall hope to be in store for the land, there surely would remain a sufficiency—a satisfying sufficiency—for those who own or are native of the soil which has such bright possibilities upon and beneath it. A few words as to the year’s work, a word in which vale has its full meaning, and I have done. The Society has held twelve meetings during the year. Several papers have been read and discussed. The annual Show, in spite of certain govern- mental reluétance, happily for the Society timely turned to the following of precedent, passed off most successfully, and that success was due, as we all gratefully recognise, to the untiring energy and devotion of Messrs. Quelch and Harrison and Hargreaves. We have not found out, gentlemen, how to kill down fungus, bounties, rind-rust, beet or other enemies of honest cane. We have not discovered the method of always being able to turn a deficit into a credit balance. We have not succeeded in persuading outside markets that Guiana Sugar, Coffee, Cocoa, Plantains, Rum, Rice, and such like fruitful results of labour, are the best in the world, the only ones in fact to be purchased if the consumer would live long and happy. We have not erected numbers of many-stamp mills in the El] Dorado regions of our Province, but I venture to think that your work has not been entirely useless, and if we cannot attain all the ends I have foreshadowed above, it is at least my hope and my most heartfelt wish that the future may not be without a very general development of the wealth and the possibilities which are the Colony’s possession—the gifts of Nature’s bountiful hand. And now, before I close, let me express here my grateful thanks not only to you 436 TIMEHRI. who as members of this Society have given me your confidence and sup= port with an ever readiness to pardon many shortcomings, but also to those who have been officesbearers with me during the past year, and to those employed permanently by the Society—to our Vice-President to whom I have already gratefully alluded, to Mr. Daly, whose devotion to its interests needs no mention from me, to Mr. Conyers, to Mr. Rodway and to the whole staff, honorary or paid, who have made my duties both very easy and very pleasant. I bid you farewell, gentle- men, as your President, and I assure you that the interests and the welfare of this Society, as of the whole colony, will always occupy a foremost place in the thoughts and endeavours which are and will be the outcome of a genuinely grateful memory. Mr. Luard said: Gentlemen, I am sure that you have all listened to the valedictory address which our President, the Hon. Cavendish Boyle, has just delivered, with the greatest possible interest. But I am also sure that that interest has been tintured with a certain amount of sadness when you consider that this is the last occasion when we Shall see our President in the presidential chair of this Society. But we shall see him in the Vice-President’s chair during the ensuing year. It is a matter for gratification to see the very great interest that our President takes in all the different matters connected with this Colony. The address which he has just delivered to us will prove this. He has touched on a great many important subjects, and I think I may say that no previous President, other than a planter, has ever taken such an interest in agriculture, generally, as Mr. Boyle has, I have been very much struck, over and over again, at the great interest Mr. Boyle has always taken in the Society’s welfare. I am sure we thank Mr. Boyle very much for the very interesting valedi€tory address which he has given us. On the motion of the President, seconded by Mr. Luke M. Hill, Professor J. B. Harrison was unani- mously eleéted President for the ensuing year, after which the other eleétions were made as per annexed list :— REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 437 Office-Bearers for 1897. Patroness: LA EWKOUEEN. Vice-Patron : His ExceLtency Sir AUGUSTUS WILLIAM LAWSON HEMMING, K.C.M.G., GOVERNOR AND COMMANDER IN-CulEF, &c., &c., &c. President : Pror, J. B. HARRISON, M.A,, F.G.S., F.C. Vice-President ; Hon, CAVENDISH BOYLE, C.M.G, Hon. Secretary: THOMAS DALY. Hon. Treasurer: F. A. CONYERS. Ordinary Directors: R. G. DUNCAN, F.R. Hon. B. H. JONES. H. KIRKE, M.A., B.C.L. Hon. E. C, LUARD. Rev. W. B. RITCHIE, M.A. Hon. A. WEBER. Managing Directors: A. DUNCAN. GEO. GARNETT, F.R. LUKE M. HILL, C.E., A.M.I.C.E. Exchange Room Directors: F. H. ANDERSON, M.D. A. SUMMERSON. C, WIETING. 438 TIMEHRI, Agricultural Committee: Chairman: Vice-Chairman : Hon, Secretary: ROBT. ALLAN GEO. BAGOT S. M. BELLAIRS G. M. BETHUNE W. T. BINNIE JACOB CONRAD R.. DUNCAN, F.R. J. M. FLEMING, M.A. H. GARNETT J. GILLESPIE Hon. A. R. GILZEAN Pror.. J. B. HARRISON, M.A. F.G.S., F.LC. Hon. B. H. JONES J. B. LAING Hon. E. C. LUARD J. B. MAYERS F. I. SCARD W. R, SPENCE Hon. W. A. WOLSELEY H. VON ZIEGEZAR Commercial Committee. Chairman: Vice.Chairman : Hon. Secretary: J. Y. BALDWIN W. W. BIRCH JACOB CONRAD W. CUNNINGHAM S. A, H. CULPEPER J. WOOD DAVIS ]. H. pt JONGE A. P. MACKEY G. H. RITCHIE A. SUMMERSON JAS. STUART C. G. A. WYATT and the Exchange Room Directors. Committee of Correspondence: Chairman: Vice-Chairman : Hon, Secretary : J. |. QUELCH, B.Sc. Treasurer: F. A, CONYERS. : SULA ae qomont REPORT OF SOCIETY’S MEETINGS. 439 GEO, BAGOT G. M. BETHUNE S. M. BELLAIRS Very Rev. Dean CASWELL H. H. CUNNINGHAM Dr. H. B. FORD L. M. HILL, C.E., A.M.1.C.E. Hon. D. M. HUTSON Hon. B. H. JONES G. S. JENMAN, F.L.S. H. KIRKE, M.A., B.C.L. AENEAS D. MACKAY Hon. A. R. GILZEAN Dr. A. MATTHEY T S. HARGREAVES, F.G.S. Rev. D. J. REYNOLDS Pror. J. B, HARRISON, M.A.,, | Rev. W. B. RITCHIE, M.A. B.G.S,, ELC: | FI. SCARD H. L. HUMPHRYS J. B. WOOLFORD W. H. WOODROFFE. Book Committee ; Chairman : Vice-Chairman : F. H. ANDERSON, M.D. S. M. BELLAIRS H. KIRKE, M.A., B.C.L. C. H. G. LEGGE Hon. H. A. BOVELL, Q.C. Very Rev. DEan CASWELL Hon. N. D. DAVIS, C.M.G. G. F. FRANKS, M.A., F.G.S. Dr. C. J. GOMES JAS. GILLESPIE Pror. J. B. HARRISON, M.A., B.G.5.0 FC. T. S. HARGREAVES, F.G:S. ZENEAS D. MACKAY Rev. E. POCKNELL J. A. POTBURY, M.A. Rev. D. J. REYNOLDS Rev. W. B. RITCHIE, M.A. F. I SCARD Ge BSSDEELE H. W. SCONCE, B.A. F. G. THORNE, B.A. SSS Local Secretaries (Berbice) Dr. E. D. ROWLAND. (Essequebo) Dr. C. F. CASTOR. Gurator of Museum: J. J. QUELCH, B.Sc. Assistant Secretary & Librarian: J. RODWAY, F.LS. Resident Director in London: NEVILE LUBBOCK. A vote of thanks to the Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer for their services during the year was heartily accorded. 440 TIMEHRI. The thanks of the Society were given to Dr. E. Pinaud for two pamphlets on the Boundary Question, | The meeting then terminated. hea! ae ae | ee eee Sa ee Tee ein Sar ew Be ee i Hi i ni aa \ Ht yee 4 y \ esstayh ; tt yn ry RS CLR SUT aN Ge a oe = Bioke es oe Sisreresee 2 — ad = Meh t me Fa ste wd Ay Hell \ Re} (a niles VMs Aes, Mi Att iicid a mh i athe ah ea ante Ss wy r ans ane ei La - cig Stee Pin > oe Ee Sees, a ee Be RPO = = era = i ne Wi Bae mR ae if be Ua ne ined ‘ i Teast AGRA fi Ny y i isk 7 ‘ ‘ i iM IN ue ‘hy ae ne b jy 4 Cua : ae i bite Wah sy arate eoscnd a oe iy a Or ays tl Hie Hypa i Ate } hfe ' ian) 3 ey atulp dint 1a hh "a iat oar tit aye at VaR) £ wri) Cr eo | a oe Car ages > So