218 



NOTES ON BRAZIL. 



ever, until the evening meal, for when the horses were ready we pro- 

 ceeded, and made a long afternoon. 



In the abodes of respectable Farmers, or rather Graziers, there is 

 usually a lodging-room reserved for strangers ; to this room their saddles, 

 bridles, and all their baggage, are carefully conveyed. The horses being 

 stripped and led away by slaves, are considered as under the exclusive 

 care of the master of the house, or his servants ; and it would be regarded 

 as a want of confidence if an individual were to show any concern about 

 his beast. By way of marking peculiar attention, a guest is sometimes 

 asked how he would wish the fowls to be dressed. While the supper 

 is preparing conversation is maintained with spirit, more especially if 

 there be travellers present from different quarters. At supper, which is 

 often graced with a large exhibition of silver plate, the host places 

 himself at the head of the table, where he stands and helps every one 

 plentifully ; using his knife, fork, and fingers, indiscriminately. Wine, 

 if produced, is taken as a part of the meal ; never after it. The attend- 

 ants are frequently numerous ; seldom, as may be supposed, expert. 

 About eleven o'clock a slave appears, with water and a towel, for the 

 hands and face ; and is soon followed by another, with warm and cold 

 water, to wash the feet, — a most grateful custom in a hot and dusty 

 country. The bed-room being prepared, according to the number of the 

 guests, the master conducts them thither, and points out to each where 

 he is to repose himself. The Brazilians do not always undress ; where 

 there is. nothing to disgust them, Europeans commonly follow their own 

 more refreshing mode. In the morning all put on their uncleaned boots, 

 and, with unshaven chins, meet the host at breakfast, whose beard is, 

 probably, still longer than their's. Immediately after breakfast the 

 horses make their appearance, and are saddled at the door. A thousand 

 compliments, thanks and good wishes, are exchanged between the 

 friendly entertainer and his guests, who finally bow from the saddle 

 and depart. Should they return by the same route, to omit to call at the 

 houses where they had been kindly received, would be accounted 

 unpardonable, ^ 



