CHAPTER IX. 



CHILI. 



183 9. 



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. The officers and scientific gentlemen were assigned to 

 such duties as were deemed most desirable 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 

 exertion was made to supply our wants, and through the kindness and 

 attention of our consul, G. G. Hobson, Esq., this was effected in the 



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