60 



NOTES ON BRAZIL. 



heavily, but harmlessly. Such a precaution was not unnecessary, for 

 the sea had fretted away much of the barrier on either hand, and a little 

 to the South lie the ruins of a large house, which was once thought to be 

 far out of the reach of the turbulent ocean. 



Within view, about a mile distant, on the opposite side of a small 

 bay, and on the declivity of a pleasant hill, overshadowed with wood, is 

 the beautiful church of Nossa Senhora da Gloria, to which is attached a 

 small convent, occupied by German Jesuits. Altogether this is one of 

 the most picturesque objects in the neighbourhood of the city. 



The church of Santa Anna stands at one corner of the Campo, or 

 field, of the same name. West of the city. It is a small, neat building, 

 and has a well proportioned steeple attached to it, but is uncomfortably 

 situated among deep and loose sand. The interior is extremely well 

 lighted, clean and neat. Once a year there is a festival held in this 

 church, to which great numbers resort. It seems to resemble our old 

 wakes or feasts, and to be calculated to maintain or revive, among the 

 people of Rio, some neighbourly intercourse and sociability. 



There are six other small and little noticed churches, in an unfinished 

 state ; some of them so much so as to be unfit for the reception of 

 worshippers. This work goes slowly forward, notwithstanding the 

 stimulus furnished by the Roman Catholic religion ; not, indeed, more 

 slowly than might be expected, considering that the only stated funds 

 for the purpose arise from the contributions of the faithful, and that 

 these are, in general, very small. Seldom are any but pieces of copper 

 coin seen in the dish, and one of silver, occasionally appearing among 

 them, excites great attention. Though these funds are sometimes aided 

 by extraordinary gifts, in testimony of gratitude for general success, or 

 the fortunate issue of particular undertakings ; and by the produce of 

 vows made for deliverance from perils by sea or land, through the inter- 

 ference of some Saint, who requires to be honoured, in return for his 

 favours. It is really wonderful that so much is accomplished ; it could 

 not be done did not the priests, who superintend the work, use great 

 care, and expend what is raised with fidelity. 



