Capuchin Missions of the Caroni. 11 



On the opposite side, entered some rich savannahs, where is a 

 potrero. At four leagues' distance, came to the Miamo, which 

 was nearly dry, A rude foot-bridge constructed of trees, and 

 about 500 feet in length, shewed the occasional breadth of the 

 channel. When full, it is necessary to dismount and swim the 

 horses across. The road here branches off to the left to Uasipati, 

 and the right to Carapo. Was welcomed by Cornejo, the com- 

 mandant of the district, a clever intelligent man. Found him 

 in a bustle, orders having just arrived to expedite 1,000 loads 

 of provisions. All the Guariaiches were set to work forthwith 

 to rasp cassava and make it into bread. They seemed diligent, 

 and really got on with expedition. C. told me he thought he 

 should be able to send off about 500 loads. An average mule- 

 load is reckoned 2001b. ; horse-load 1501b. Carapo was founded 

 in 1751, is in the Caraib line, and contains sixty houses placed 

 on an elevated spot near the woods. It should be healthy, but 

 its frequent communications with San Miguel have introduced 

 the fever. About forty were sick. Its general aspect is lively, 

 from the number of trees in the garden, and the tobacco- grounds 

 that surround it. These C. had planted on his own account, 

 and they seem to thrive ; he offered it me at sixteen dollars the 

 100 arrobas. Nothing is here grown for Government account 

 but cotton and provisions. C. strongly recommended the pro- 

 ject of renting a mission, and mentioned a spot between this 

 and Miamo well-adapted for a tobacco-ground. The soil must 

 be good from the appearance of the rice and maize, and of the 

 cotton-trees ; in fact, a range of hills lies close behind the town. 

 K. came over in the afternoon drenched with rain. He had 

 purchased a tame mule for twenty dollars, and a wild mule and 

 horse for forty dollars : but left them all behind. Silvas had not 

 been permitted by his wife to undergo the operation. The sol- 

 dier's horse had been stolen, but my mules were reported all well. 

 The Indians rarely steal mules, detection being more easy. In 

 the afternoon, felt unwell, from the effects of the muddy water, 

 as I conjectured. Took a strong dose of calomel in consequence, 

 which confined me for the next day. 



27th. Had much conversation with C. on the subject of a 



