NORTH AMERICA: MEXICO. 341 



fiber, and other vegetable matters and substances. Rags and other 

 waste material could also be obtained in considerable quantities. 

 These would have to be gathered in a systematic manner, as there 

 is no provision for their preservation at the present time. 



MANUFACTURE, BANKING AND MAIL FACILITIES, ETC. 



There are no facilities whatever for making machinery in this con- 

 sular district; there is plenty of labor, but it is lacking in efficiency. 



There is one small paper mill in this State, in the city of Orizaba, 

 manufacturing common brown wrapping paper. Its facilities are 

 limited, and its yearly output is not known. 



The banking connections with the various countries mentioned 

 are good. 



Mail matter from Veracruz to Europe via New York will reach 

 its destination in about fifteen days via steamer. The service is 

 from six to seven times per month. 



American manufacturers should investigate the present condi- 

 tions, become acquainted with the consumers, and have representa- 

 tion on the ground ready to fill the demand. Customs and usages 

 are entirely different in this country from those prevailing in the 

 United States. Spain adapts herself to these conditions; hence she 

 sends the bulk of the importations of paper. If American manufac- 

 turers will conform to them, there is no reason why the United States 

 should not control the paper trade of Mexico. I would recommend 

 that samples of all kinds of paper be transmitted to the various 

 merchants mentioned in this report, or that agents be sent who 

 understand the language, customs, and habits of the people and will 

 keep in close touch with the trade. 



WM. W. CANADA, 



VERACRUZ, April 12, 1899. Consul. 



