196 



PANAMA. 



traveller the conviction that it has seen better 

 days; there is^ indeed^ enough pasturage in 

 the Plaza, and in other places within the walls^ 

 for mules and horses to be regularly turned 

 loose to graze, as in a Savannah. 



Sharks are so numerous on the coast that 

 it is impossible to bathe in the sea; but ano- 

 ther and more secure mode of bathing in some 

 measure compensates for the want of this 

 luxury, and procures at least a respite for a 

 few minutes, from the intense heat and languor 

 of the climate. Every house is supplied vvdth 

 large earthen jars full of fresh water ; these are 

 sometimes placed in a yard, or under a shed in 

 a garden; where persons who wish to cool 

 themselves may undress, and taking the water 

 with calabashes from these jars, pour it over 

 their naked bodies as effectually as in a shower- 

 bath. 



