viii 



PREFACE. 



From the state of torpid inactivity in 

 which Colombia has been so long retained 

 by the abasing despotism of Spain, she is 

 fast rising to exertion and industry : her 

 prosperity is rapidly increasing, and will 

 daily extend in multiplied channels, diffusing 

 in its progress the happiness and knowledge 

 which were perpetually repressed by the ar- 

 bitrary measures of the mother-country. 



My observation has convinced me of the 

 truth of my assertions, which daily reports 

 also justify and confirm ; and if I inspire my 

 readers with a tithe of that warmth of feel- 

 ing and interest for Colombia and her chil- 

 dren that I myself experience, my aim will 

 be attained, and my wishes gratified. 



