IN THE PACIFIC. 165 



and were killed by the falling walls ; and some 

 prisoners, who were being removed from gaol, 

 were killed in the same way. 



In some places the earth had opened, leaving 

 great yawning fissures, and many graves had 

 been rent asunder and the bodies exposed ; in 

 consequence of this it was at one time appre- 

 hended that an epidemic would be added to the 

 other horrors. The action of the Government 

 during this terrible time was most praiseworthy. 

 The President having removed his family to 

 Santa Tecla established himself under canvas 

 in the plaza, and by his admirable regulations, 

 and the discipline which he enforced, main- 

 tained order. The city was placed under 

 martial law, and by a Government decree 

 citizens were authorized to shoot any one inter- 

 fering with their property, or even being found 

 with property in their possession of which they 

 could give no satisfactory account. These may 

 seem severe measures, but any one acquainted 

 with the lawless condition of such countries 

 must be aware of their necessity. Sentries were 



