MADEIRA. 23 



cistern of the barometer at the latter place, above half tide, was found 

 to be by levelling fifty-six feet. Total, six thousand two hundred and 

 thirty-seven feet above half tide. 



The magnetical observations for dip and intensity were also mad \ 

 and the longitude by chronometer was found to be, 16° 54' 11" W. 

 Latitude by observation, 32° 38' 11" N. 



The markets are well supplied with meat, poultry, fish, and all 

 kinds of vegetables. 



The bat noticed by Bowdich was the only one of the mammalia 

 seen in a wild state. Of birds, two species of hawks, the linnet, the 

 canary, the goldfinch, the yellow wagtail, and the swift, were all that 

 were seen. Sea fish are abundant ; but not a single trace of a fresh 

 water fish was seen or found in the streams. Many specimens of 

 Crustacea, insects, and mollusca were added to our collections. 



The ride to the Quinta of Mr. Bean at Comancha is one of the 

 prettiest the island affords. It is towards the east end, and some 

 eight or ten miles from the town of Funchal. For variety of scenery 

 and the beauty of its grounds it is not exceeded by any on the island, 

 and it gives a good idea of the effect of English taste when applied 

 to the scenery and fine climate of Madeira. The road to it is the 

 same that has been before described, passing through the gorges and 

 around the different spurs, which gives great variety to it, and presents 

 many fine views. Having a note of introduction from our consul, we 

 stopped at Mr. Bean's gate and sent the servant in, who returned, 

 informing us that Mr. Bean was not at home, but a kind invitation 

 to enter was sent to us from his lady. We did so, riding through 

 hedges of Fuchsias and Myrtles twelve feet high, when a beautiful 

 little cottage on a small level spot burst suddenly upon our view, with 

 its verandahs embosomed in creeping vines, and from the notes 

 of various kinds of birds, one could almost have fancied oneself in an 

 aviary. All united to give the impression that it was the abode 

 of contentment. Several small lakes were partially seen, their 

 dimensions being ingeniously hid from view. On one of them was 

 seen a tiny fleet safely moored, on another, waterfalls, &c, &c. ; the 

 banks of others were surrounded with aquatic plants, among which 

 was the Calla Ethiopica in full bloom. Then again we were struck 

 with the dahlias, geraniums, roses, and jasmines, and the varieties of 

 trees and shrubs from the tropics, besides willows, oaks, elms, &c, 

 that were familiar to us. A view through the trees down the gorge 

 to the distant ocean was beautiful, bringing before us all the bold 

 scenery of Madeira : truly it was an enchanting spot. The grounds 

 are extensive, and laid out with great taste, and each spot appeared 



