CHAPTER XIII 
SMALLER ISLANDS OF THE TYPE OF MADAGASCAR 
Various smaller islands are grouped near the colossal 
island which we have described. These are partly of 
volcanic origin, and partly small outlying pinnacles of 
the central rock. 
The climatic conditions agree with those of Mada¬ 
gascar, except that the contrast between the wet and 
dry seasons is more sharply marked than on the main 
island. 
The flora and fauna are not so rich in species, but 
are of pronounced Malagasy character, though isolated 
endemic species are also to be met with. 
I. SAINTE MARIE 
This small, flat island stretches along the eastern 
side of Madagascar, from which it is distant only 4J miles, 
and is crossed not far from its southern point by the 17th 
parallel. Its surface contains 60 square miles, its length 
over 30 miles. The south and west are fringed by 
flat banks of coral. 
The harbour of St. Louis on the south side is roomy 
and well sheltered ; it can be reached by steamer from 
Tamatave in seven hours. 
The climate is considered very unhealthy on account 
of its dampness; the vegetation is of astonishing luxuri¬ 
ance. In the interior are to be noticed extensive forests, 
