PEARL FISHERY. 143 



going down in particular parts, and in deep 

 water, so that they are obliged to fish and 

 re-fish the shallow beds close to the Islas del 

 Rey ; whereas, with the machinery of the 

 Colombian Pearl Fishing Company, nearly 

 every spot in the Bay of Panama may be in- 

 spected, without the least fear or danger, 

 and by this means a new era, with respect 

 to the value, size, and quantity of pearls, 

 will commence. 



It must also be kept in mind how very 

 much the population of the world has in- 

 creased since 1530, and that should pearls 

 be introduced into the market at a mode- 

 rate price, the actual consumption might be 

 a hundred-fold more than is at present de- 

 manded. 



Amongst the most important enactments 

 of the late session, are : — 



