CHAPTER IX. 
CHILI. 
1839. 
On approaching the coast of Chili, every one is anxious to get a 
sight of the Cordilleras. There are only two periods during the day 
in which they can be seen to advantage, viz. : in the morning before 
sunrise, and in the evening at sunset. The first is the most striking 
view. The outline is at that time of a golden hue, and may be easily 
traced, in a long line, running north and south. This gradually 
brightens, and is lost the moment the sun is seen. 
The evening view gives rise to disappointment. The mountains 
are seen at a great distance (eighty miles in a bird's flight) reflecting 
the setting sun, and, in consequence, appear much lower than is 
anticipated. 
On our arrival at Valparaiso, I lost no time in establishing the 
observatory, and commencing its duties. The officers and scientific 
gentlemen were assigned to such duties as were deemed most desira- 
ble to insure the results in the different departments. 
The authorities, whom I at once called upon in company with our 
consul, were exceedingly kind and attentive, and gave every offer of 
assistance. 
The officers of the customs readily gave me permission to land all 
my instruments. Mr. Cood, an English gentleman, kindly offered 
our consul to place at my disposition an unoccupied house on the 
hill. Although it was some distance to mount up, as it was quiet 
and out of the way, I accepted the kind offer, and occupied it. 
As I was desirous of avoiding all unnecessary delay, not only on 
account of the loss of time we had already met with, but because the 
season was approaching when the northers might be expected, every 
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