Mineral Water of the Baths of Nevis, West Indies, 5 



for which they have a feeble affinity, when in that state^ 

 which has been designated their nascent state, in which we 

 may suppose that tliey are in a condition of tlie subtlest 

 division, — perhaps no two particles yet cohering. Not only 

 are crystalline rocks and clays found in Nevis, but also well 

 formed crystals of quartz of perfect transparency, which, 

 under the name of diamonds, are in no small estimation 

 amongst the inhabitants for ornamental purposes, after hav- 

 ing been cut and polished. They are found, I was informed^ 

 loose in the beds of torrents ; but whether they are of aqueous 

 or igneous origin, I could learn nothing on which to found 

 even conjecture. 



I have alluded to the beneficial effects of the mineral 

 water of Nevis, used as a drink. Considering its composition, 

 such an effect, is what perhaps might be expected. I may 

 also notice, that the baths have proved very beneficial in 

 obstinate cases of chronic rheumatism. Our great naval 

 hero, Lord Nelson, it is likely used them ; for, when in infirm 

 health, we are informed, he recruited it in this island, re- 

 siding at a spot about two miles distant from the baths, in a 

 house the property of the uncle of Mrs Nesbit, a native of 

 Nevis, whom he married at this time. 



For invalids, to whom these waters are likely to be useful, 

 these baths hold out many recommendations. There is a 

 good lodging-house adjoining them, built specially for the 

 accommodation of invalids, by a philanthropic individual ; — 

 they are about half-a-mile only from James Town, where me- 

 dical advice can be obtained, and where the steamers of the 

 Royal West India Mail Company touch twice a-month. 



In a former communication which appeared in the Philo- 

 sophical Journal, I took occasion to notice defects of ventila- 

 tion in the vessels of this Company. I regret to learn that 

 these defects continue ; and that others are added to them, 

 arising out of want of proper attention to the comforts of 

 passengers. When the winter climate of the West Indies 

 is considered, compared with our home winter climate, and 

 the probable benefit that a numerous class of persons in 

 feeble health might derive from a voyage to the West Indies, 

 and a sojourn here for two or three of the coolest monthsj 



