10 Excursion from Angostura to the 



25th. This morning took leave of my Caraquenian host, 

 and proceeded with a guide to Tupuquen. Entering the open 

 savannah again, turned to the left, journeying towards the NW. 

 across the southern side of the plain. Passed numerous 

 herds of cattle and horses. They seem to have run wild for 

 want of people to drive them in. Their general appearance 

 would indicate the goodness of the pasture in these parts. 

 Endeavoured to get a shot at a soldier-bird, but in vain. After 

 a fruitless search for a spring, breakfasted beside a muddy pond, 

 the water of which I had reason to think disagreed with me : 

 this was the first time I had felt this inconvenience. Approach- 

 ing Tupuquen, a distance of about nine leagues, the savannah 

 improves in appearance. Saw large herds of mares grazing in 

 different parts, with seven or eight mules. These latter seem 

 to have been bred in the time of the padres, the people in office 

 at present being wholly occupied in raising provisions for the 

 Government. Tupuquen stands at one corner of this immense 

 plain, at the foot of a ridge of mountains. Was planted in 

 1770 with Indians of the Caraib tribe, and in 1803 reckoned 

 570 inhabitants; now reduced to 150. The men have all re- 

 tired to the neighbouring mountains, whither their wives are 

 fast following them ; and it is to be feared this establish- 

 ment will be broken up before long. The stock of cattle is still 

 considerable, about 4,000, mares 1,200, sufficient to form the 

 basis of a colony. The cotton and tobacco-grounds are near 

 and productive ; buildings well placed and in tolerable good 

 order, but mostly deserted. The old Teniente and his family 

 received me with kindness ; he seemed of very indolent habits. 

 Towards sunset, took my gun and walked down to the lake or 

 pond hard by, to shoot wisissee (ducks). Found them extremely 

 shy. By hiding myself and sending the boys into the water, 

 got a couple of shots ; killed four, which, in spite of remon- 

 strances, were forthwith dressed for supper, and as tough as you 

 please. 



26th, Procured a guide from hence to Carapo, seven leagues 

 distant. Took a direction northerly, and crossed a range Of 

 well-wooded mountains abounding in rpdna and fine timber. 



