408 
SANTA CRUZ 
cattle and horses, as well as for all kinds of grain. 
Wheat, in particular, does remarkably well here. The 
Chili Colorado (red pepper), of which such quantities 
are consumed in Mexico, grows here in perfection, 
and is said to be preferred on account of its superior 
piquancy to any raised in Sonora. The climate is 
milder than in either the southern or northern parts 
of the State. In the winter it is subject to severe 
Santa Cruz, Sonora. 
frosts, so that the river freezes and snow often lies on 
the ground for several days. It is, however, a very 
sickly place, the inhabitants suffering from bilious 
fevers, in consequence of the proximity of a large 
marsh three miles west of the town. Many were ill 
at the time of my visit, and I was desirous to get away 
as soon as possible. 
