50 
SYSTEM OF FARMING. 
is here still used for thrashing corn, which is done by 
driving two or more, round a circle, over the sheaves. 
It was gratifying to notice, that the Mosaic injunction 
was still observed — “Thou shall not muzzle the ox that 
treadeth the corn.” The dromedary is much employed 
here in conveying heavy goods, or for long journeys. 
They were brought originally from Fuerta Ventura, 
where they are said to be numerous, and found in 
a wild state. Large panniers are suspended across the 
hump, on which the bundles are secured. They carry 
a great weight, are very hardy, enduring and patient. 
In general a few bells are suspended to the neck, 
causing, as the animal moves, a not unpleasant 
tinkling. 
Corn is grown in small patches all over the mountain 
sides, but as these are steep, it becomes necessary to 
raise up thick stone parapets, and the debris falling 
down and filling up the interstices to a level, enables 
the farmer to cultivate it. The soil is naturally rich, 
and well it is so, for the farmer is mostly poor, and 
without means to expend in improving. The system is 
bad. A proprietor allows the tenant the use of the 
land, for which the latter tills, sows, and reaps the 
produce ; and, after all, only receives one half the sum 
it may realise. If a dry season occur, which is too 
often the case, the poor farmer is ruined. The owner 
of the estate has no consideration. We were informed 
by an Englishman the case of one of his tenants, who 
had been rather unfortunate, yet by an advance of 
