CHAP. IV. THE BASIN OF A3IBAT0. 97 



sultations it was determined to shift head-quarters to Machachi 

 Avhere Jean - Antoine and I could find occupation until the dis- 

 abled man had recovered. On Jan. 24 we marched to Latacunga, 

 and on the 25th to Machachi ; as usual, with a train of mules, for 

 no vehicle — not even a bullock-cart — could be obtained at Ambato.^ 



The basin of Ambato, which we traversed on the 24th, is 

 bounded on the south by a spur thrown out from Carihuairazo 

 in the direction of Tunguragua ; on the west by low mountains 

 for which I heard no distinctive name ; and on the east by an 

 important block, containing lofty summits, that are known under 

 the general appellation of the mountains of Llanganati.^ On 

 approaching Latacunga the slopes draw in from each side, and 

 form the northern boundary of the basin, and after passing the 

 town they again retire, and circle round what may be termed 

 the basin of Latacunga, which is bounded and enclosed on the 

 north by the Tiupullo ridge. The Kiver Cutuchi drains the 

 basin of Latacunga, and has not a deep bed. After passing the 

 town, until near Banos, this same river is called the Patate, 

 and throughout the greater part of its course flows through a 

 deep and striking ravine, a portion of which is well seen from 

 the village of Yambo. The Eiver Pastassa is formed by the 

 junction of the Patate and the Eiver Chambo, coming from the 

 basin of Riobamba. 



The town of Ambato is at the lowest point of the road 



(8600 feet), which rises gently almost all the way to Latacunga 



eruptiou on Jan. 12, 1886, and, I am informed by Mr. Chambers, did much damage. 

 Asli from tliis outburst fell at Guayaquil, 



1 At this time an omnibus ran from Ambato to Quito once a week, leaving at 

 mid-day on Tuesdays, and arriving at its destination about 4 p.m. on Wednes- 

 days. The seats had been engaged in advance, and we were thus unable to make 

 use of it. This was the only coach of any sort running in the interior of Ecuador. 



- The importance of the mountains of Llanganati will not be apprehended by 

 any one passing along the Quito road. Their outlying portions, which are alone 

 seen, do not suggest the rugged and complicated ranges that are in the rear. The 

 complete exploration of this district alone would afford a traveller good occupation 

 for several years. 



