FOOTNOTES

RORAIMA AND BRITISH GUIANABY J.W. Boddam-WhethamAuthor’s Route in BlueTranscriber’s Note: The map is clickable for a larger version.London: Hurst & Blackett.Stanford’s Geogr. Establ., London.

RORAIMA AND BRITISH GUIANA

BY J.W. Boddam-Whetham

Author’s Route in Blue

Transcriber’s Note: The map is clickable for a larger version.

London: Hurst & Blackett.

Stanford’s Geogr. Establ., London.

FOOTNOTES[1]Some magnificent roses are grown near Hamilton, and one gentleman informed me that he had over two hundred varieties thriving luxuriantly; not the over-blooming, straggling plants, whose blossoms are coarse, ill-shaped, and of faded colour, so often seen in hot climates, but beautiful bright roses with thick petals and rare symmetry of outline.[2]A curious circumstance about these creatures is that nearly every individual harbours in his stomach a large parasitical fish, that lies at ease and feeds upon whatever comes in its way.[3]In appearance these gigantic pots and cauldrons are similar to the large basin-shaped, or funnel-like holes made ages ago by the glacier on the sandstone ridge in the “Glacier garden of Lucerne,” Switzerland. But there, lying at the bottom of the basins are the colossal balls, which once as hard blocks of stone had slipped through the icy fissures, and had then been rolled and twisted about by the action of water rushing down upon them until the deep holes were made. The Bermudian boilers appear rather to have been built up than hollowed out.[4]Crescentia cujete.[5]Just before our arrival a case occurred in which a little urchin was sent on a similar expedition, his only offence apparently being that of running about the streets in a shirt which only extended as far as his breast-bone, and consequently was not regulation.[6]The bread-fruit naturally recalls the “Mutiny of the Bounty,” as it was for the purpose of introducing that tree into the West Indies that Bligh was sent to Tahiti in 1788. On the failure of that expedition he again set out for Tahiti in 1792, obtained his trees, and landed a number safely at St. Vincent. But in these islands it is not the grand tree which in the South Seas affords the chief sustenance of life, and the degenerated fruit is left untouched even by the negro.[7]The Moravians here, as elsewhere, have schools judiciously administered, and these zealous people are still worthy of Cowper’s eulogy when he said,“Fir’d with a zeal peculiar, they defyThe rage and rigour of a polar sky,And plant successfully sweet Sharon’s roseOn burning plains, and in eternal snows.”[8]Among the important improvements, the factory intended to burn coal for fuel, thus saving the waste cane which it was customary to use for that purpose, for manure.[9]Since the above was written news has arrived of a negro insurrection, and the destruction of nearly every sugar plantation on the island.[10]A favourite amusement in St. Thomas; a dead horse is towed out behind a boat, and the greedy monsters, eagerly fastening on it, are then harpooned.[11]Leeward Islands consist of Dominica, Antigua, Montserrat, Nevis, and St. Kitt’s. Windward Islands consist of Barbadoes, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Tobago.[12]Erythrina umbrosa.[13]Oreodoxa oleracea; called the mountain-cabbage because within the central spike lies concealed the cabbage, composed of white longitudinal flakes forming a crisp compact body. When cut up into thin ribands and boiled, it is served as a vegetable with meat. As all palm trees possess this eatable spike, it is hard to tell why this species should in particular be called the “cabbage.”[14]Carolinea.[15]Brownea.[16]Eugenia Michellii.[17]Swinburne.[18]Abrus precatoria.[19]Jatropha manihot.[20]Eulampis Jugularis.[21]Chrysotis Augusta.[22]Cathartes aura.[23]Trochilus moschitus.[24]Chlorostilbon atala.[25]Thaumatias chronopectus.[26]Mauritia flexuosa.[27]This, the largest of our colonies in the West Indies, and the only one in South America, comprises the three counties of Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice, which derive their names from the three principal rivers which border them. Georgetown, the capital, and seat of Government, has a population of 37,000 inhabitants, whilst the total population of the colony approaches 240,000. The coast line of British Guiana on the Atlantic is about 280 miles in length, and in breadth the country varies from 200 to 450 miles, the total area being estimated at 76,000 square miles. Its boundaries inland may be said to be Venezuela, Brazil, and Dutch Guiana, but the precise limits of the two former are still undetermined. Cultivation is restricted to a long narrow strip of the coast and along the banks of the rivers for a few miles. The whole of the cultivated area is under 80,000 acres, and the greater part of that is in sugar cane alone.[28]As there is no natural fall of water, these open trenches, which are seen everywhere in the country as well as town, are necessary to carry off surface water to prevent flooding in the wet season. By sluice-gates the town trenches can be flooded when required.[29]Couroupita Guianensis.[30]Gelasimus vocans.[31]Anablaps tetraophthalmus.[32]Phœnicircus carnifex.[33]Centrifugals are open round boxes of metal, pierced like gauze. These are whisked round and round at a tremendous speed, and the molasses flying out through the gauze leave the sugar white and dry.[34]Physalia atlantica.[35]Avicenna nitida.[36]Coryphœ cerifera.[37]Provisions intended to last for three months. Six barrels of flour, one and a half boxes of cod fish; three bags of brown rice; three barrels of ship’s biscuit; one hundred and forty pounds of bacon; seventy-five pounds of coffee; one barrel of sugar; one case of brandy; fifty pounds of onions; twelve gallons of split peas. Also a small quantity of canned provisions.[38]Chaconia Calycophyllum.[39]Mora excelsa.[40]Nectandra Rodiei.[41]Oreodaphne sp.[42]Hybiscus elatus.[43]Eperua falcata.[44]Topaza pella.[45]Cacicus citrius.[46]Mycteria Americana.[47]Gynericum.[48]Myletes pacu.[49]Paiworie is a drink made from cassava bread, which is prepared in the same disgusting way, viz.: by chewing, as is the “kava” of the islanders of the South Seas. When a drinking feast is at hand the women are occupied for several days in chewing cassava, which with the addition of hot water gradually fills an enormous wooden trough, shaped like a canoe, and capable of containing a hundred and fifty gallons. On the appointed day, the invited guests dressed in their best feathers and decorated with teeth and beads in the latest styles, assemble round the trough. A preliminary song and dance are indulged in, then the calabashes are dipped into the intoxicating beverage, and the orgie commences. It does not finish until the paiworie is exhausted, or not a soul is left with a leg to stand upon. The scenes incident to such a performance need no description.[50]Crax alector.[51]Plotius anhinga.[52]Ibis infuscata.[53]Lachesis rhombeata.[54]Trigonocephalus.[55]Eunectes murinus.[56]Anacardium occidentale.[57]A woodskin is constructed out of a single piece of bark of a tree—generally the purple-heart. After the bark has been removed from the wood it is kept open by cross sticks, and the extremities are supported on beams so as to raise those parts. A more cranky affair cannot be imagined, and even to step into one required the greatest care; and if upset it sinks instantly, owing to the great specific gravity of the bark, which is hardly one-eighth of an inch in thickness. Its great advantage is that it can float where no boat or canoe could possibly pass. Some of the large ones will carry six or seven persons and their effects.[58]Serra salmo.[59]Bixa Orellana.[60]Genipa Americana.[61]We found it very difficult to determine with any exactness the names of mountains and falls, not only on account of the names themselves, but also from the Indian habit of slurring over the last syllables. Then again different tribes have different names for localities, and not unfrequently the various parts of mountains and even of rapids are called by various denominations. By constant repetition we approached as nearly as we could to the names uttered.[62]Dasyprocta agouti.[63]The Indians to the present day do not recognise in the alligator that shapeless fleshy mass, which is incapable of extension, as a tongue. Herodotus, too, who was a keen observer of the crocodile, repeats the idea that it is tongueless, and for that reason was regarded by the Egyptians as an emblem of mystery.[64]Paca caligenis.[65]Capybara.[66]Caladium arborescens.[67]In speaking of the course of the Mazaruni, Mr. Barrington Brown in his “Geology of British Guiana,” says that it rises in the “Merumé mountains, part of the Pacaraima group, at a height of 2,400 feet above the sea, near the 60th degree of west longitude; it runs eastward for some miles, curving round to the south in 68° 8´ 30´´ west longitude, and 5° 34´ 23´´ north latitude, and descends to a level of 2,000 feet. From this it flows in a tortuous course in a west-north-west direction to the Cako river mouth, in 60° 44´ west and 5° 47´ 11´´ north, being joined on the way by numerous large tributaries, and descending by a set of high falls at Chi-chi to a level of 1,400 feet above the sea. Flowing smoothly along at this altitude in a north-north-west direction to Sericoeng, it is precipitated down a succession of lofty falls, occupying a distance of eight miles to a level of 500 feet. Passing along at this level with a north-north-east course, it plunges over two more sets of falls to a height of 150 feet, and, emerging from the sandstone mountains in 6° 26´ 14´´ north latitude, turns suddenly to the east-north-east for a distance of 105 miles to Teboco cataract, passing on the way near the foot of the Merumé mountains, 20 miles to the northward of its source.”[68]The “lucanani,” or sun-fish, so called from a golden ring in its tail, weighs five or six pounds, and its flesh is by many preferred to that of the pacu. A peculiarity in the habits of this fish is that, when the young—which always swim near the mother—are in danger, the mother opens her mouth and they all rush in.[69]During our journey the principal butterflies that we noticed were as follows:—“Morpho Adonis,” of the most brilliant azure blue.“Urania Leilus,” with black velvet ground and golden green bands of a silky lustre, and black tail.“Marius Thetis,” tawny, with narrow black lines.“Erycina Octavius,” dark bands and crimson spots, long black tail with crimson patch.“Papilio Æneas,” velvet black wings, with red patch in middle of hinder wing, upper wings with large green spot.“Papilio Sinon,” black wings with pale green bands.“Callidryas Eubule,” surface of wings a fine yellow.“Vanessa Amathea,” dark brown surface, with broad band of deep red across centre of wings, which are edged with white spots.“Heliconia Cynisca,” surface deep black, red at base of upper wings, under wings with red stripes.[70]Buprestis gigas.[71]The “kanaima” is a secret murderer who performs his work generally by poison.[72]The “peaiman” is the sorcerer and doctor of the tribe.[73]The “didi” is supposed to be a wild man of the woods, possessed of immense strength and covered with hair.[74]Tinamus Brasiliensis.[75]Odontophorus Guianensis.[76]Brownea racemosa.[77]Ardea cocoi.[78]Ardea myrticorax.[79]Procnias carunculata.[80]“Amblyornis inornata.” Dr. Beccari, the well-known Italian naturalist, in describing the home of this species of paradise-bird says: “Directly in front of its cabin is a level space occupying a superficies about as large as that of the structure itself, which has a diameter of about a metre. It is a small lawn of soft moss, all transported thither, kept smooth and clean and free from grass, weeds, stones, and other objects not in harmony with its design. Over this graceful green carpet are scattered flowers and fruit of brilliant colours in such a manner that they really present the appearance of an elegant little garden. After these objects have been exposed for some time, and have lost their freshness, they are taken from their abode and thrown away, and are replaced by others.”[81]Felis onca.[82]The hammocks of Indians are invariably of a greasy red colour from contact with their painted bodies.[83]Icica heptaphylla.[84]I use the expression “Venezuelan side” because of our own idea of the national boundaries, but the Venezuelans claim as theirs the territory stretching east as far as the Essequibo river, and south to Brazil almost to the River Parima.[85]Janipha Coeflingo.[86]Psophia crepitans.[87]Anas moschata.[88]Ampelis cotinga.[89]Cyperus alternifolius.[90]Lacythis ollaris.[91]Carapa Guianensis.[92]Cyphorinus cantans.[93]I have adhered to the spelling of Roraima as laid down by Sir R. Schomburgh and Mr. Barrington Brown, but the natives certainly pronounce the “ai” in the same way that they pronounce the i in Marima,i.e.Mareema. It may be, as in other cases, that different tribes have different pronunciations of the same name.[94]Most of these so-called mountains are little more than high hill ranges, but their excessive steepness and the difficult nature of the ascent render them far from despicable.[95]Cladonia reticulata.[96]The height of Roraima above the sea is about 8000 feet; the table-land from which it rises being about 3,500 feet above sea level.[97]Ladenbergia densiflora.[98]Milvulus forficatus.[99]Sturnella magna.[100]Myrmecophaga jubata.[101]Cleistes rosea.[102]Stanhopea oculata.[103]Tillandsia lingulata.[104]Sobralia Elizabetha.[105]Thibaudia Pichinchensis.[106]Waterton, in speaking of the blow-pipe says that this extraordinary tube of death is, perhaps, one of the greatest natural curiosities of Guiana. The amazingly long reed of which it is composed grows hollow without knot or joint. This is called the Ourah. Being of itself too slender to answer the end of a blow-pipe, a species of Palma is used as a case in which they put the Ourah. This outer case is called Samourah. The arrow—poisoned—is from nine to ten inches in length.[107]Nasua.[108]The “ha-ha” is a wicker shield, with which the opponents try to push each other down.[109]The Monouri ant is used by the Indians as one of the ingredients in preparing the deadly Wourali poison.[110]The names of these and the other falls marked in the map were given to us by Lanceman, who claimed familiarity with all of them.[111]In the mountainous district of Mérida—another of the States of Venezuela—the Sierra Nevada peak attains an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet above the sea.[112]Amongst the few coleoptera that I recognised were those of the curious genus Brentus and the giant Prionus. There were also brilliant silver green Curculios, golden green and coppery Buprestidæ, steel blue Scarabœi glossed with purple, and a few specimens of Phaucus lancifer, whose golden body was tinged with green and violet.[113]Tanagra septicolor.[114]“Amais la libertad? pues—vivais en la campagna.”[115]Bersimum glactodendron.[116]Mr. Otis says: “Among the most important concessions by the terms of this contract was one guaranteeing that all public lands lying on the line of the road were to be used gratuitously by the Company, also a gift of 250,000 acres of land, to be selected by the grantees from any public lands on the Isthmus. Two ports, one on the Atlantic and the other on the Pacific (which were to be the termini of the road) were to be free ports; and the privilege was granted of establishing such tolls as the Company might think proper. The contract was to continue in force for forty-nine years, subject to the right of New Granada to take possession of the road at the expiration of twenty years after its completion, on payment of five millions of dollars; on the expiration of thirty years on payment of four millions; and at the expiration of forty years on payment of two millions. Three per cent was to be paid to the New Granada government upon all dividends declared. The entire work was to be completed within eight years.”[117]Crotophaga.[118]Owing to the rapid decay of the wooden poles which were formerly used, the chief engineer (Colonel Totten) conceived the idea of moulding a support of concrete. A small scantling of pitch pine was placed upright and surrounded by a jointed wooden mould, fifteen inches in diameter at base, tapering to about eight inches at the top and sunk into the earth sufficiently for support; this was filled with concrete. When the mould was removed, it was found firm and strong and well adapted to the purpose, being perfectly weather and insect proof. These posts have the appearance of hewn stone.[119]Peristeria elata.[120]The author of “Three Years in Chili,” says, “The grass of which they—Panama hats—are made is found chiefly in the neighbouring province of San Cristoval. They can be braided only in the night or early in the morning, as the heat in the day-time renders the grass brittle. It takes a native about three months to braid one of the finest quality, and I saw some hats which looked like fine linen, and are valued at fifty dollars apiece even here.”[121]Cathartes aura.[122]“Historical Record upon the Boundaries between the Republic of Colombia and the Empire of Brazil,” By José M. Quijano Otero.[123]It seems to have slipped the notice both of the proposers and those to whom it was proposed, that by no possible means could a line following the Cuyuni river reach the Roraima range or anywhere near it.—J.W.B.W.

FOOTNOTES

[1]Some magnificent roses are grown near Hamilton, and one gentleman informed me that he had over two hundred varieties thriving luxuriantly; not the over-blooming, straggling plants, whose blossoms are coarse, ill-shaped, and of faded colour, so often seen in hot climates, but beautiful bright roses with thick petals and rare symmetry of outline.

[2]A curious circumstance about these creatures is that nearly every individual harbours in his stomach a large parasitical fish, that lies at ease and feeds upon whatever comes in its way.

[3]In appearance these gigantic pots and cauldrons are similar to the large basin-shaped, or funnel-like holes made ages ago by the glacier on the sandstone ridge in the “Glacier garden of Lucerne,” Switzerland. But there, lying at the bottom of the basins are the colossal balls, which once as hard blocks of stone had slipped through the icy fissures, and had then been rolled and twisted about by the action of water rushing down upon them until the deep holes were made. The Bermudian boilers appear rather to have been built up than hollowed out.

[4]Crescentia cujete.

[5]Just before our arrival a case occurred in which a little urchin was sent on a similar expedition, his only offence apparently being that of running about the streets in a shirt which only extended as far as his breast-bone, and consequently was not regulation.

[6]The bread-fruit naturally recalls the “Mutiny of the Bounty,” as it was for the purpose of introducing that tree into the West Indies that Bligh was sent to Tahiti in 1788. On the failure of that expedition he again set out for Tahiti in 1792, obtained his trees, and landed a number safely at St. Vincent. But in these islands it is not the grand tree which in the South Seas affords the chief sustenance of life, and the degenerated fruit is left untouched even by the negro.

[7]The Moravians here, as elsewhere, have schools judiciously administered, and these zealous people are still worthy of Cowper’s eulogy when he said,“Fir’d with a zeal peculiar, they defyThe rage and rigour of a polar sky,And plant successfully sweet Sharon’s roseOn burning plains, and in eternal snows.”

[7]The Moravians here, as elsewhere, have schools judiciously administered, and these zealous people are still worthy of Cowper’s eulogy when he said,

“Fir’d with a zeal peculiar, they defyThe rage and rigour of a polar sky,And plant successfully sweet Sharon’s roseOn burning plains, and in eternal snows.”

“Fir’d with a zeal peculiar, they defy

The rage and rigour of a polar sky,

And plant successfully sweet Sharon’s rose

On burning plains, and in eternal snows.”

[8]Among the important improvements, the factory intended to burn coal for fuel, thus saving the waste cane which it was customary to use for that purpose, for manure.

[9]Since the above was written news has arrived of a negro insurrection, and the destruction of nearly every sugar plantation on the island.

[10]A favourite amusement in St. Thomas; a dead horse is towed out behind a boat, and the greedy monsters, eagerly fastening on it, are then harpooned.

[11]Leeward Islands consist of Dominica, Antigua, Montserrat, Nevis, and St. Kitt’s. Windward Islands consist of Barbadoes, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Tobago.

[12]Erythrina umbrosa.

[13]Oreodoxa oleracea; called the mountain-cabbage because within the central spike lies concealed the cabbage, composed of white longitudinal flakes forming a crisp compact body. When cut up into thin ribands and boiled, it is served as a vegetable with meat. As all palm trees possess this eatable spike, it is hard to tell why this species should in particular be called the “cabbage.”

[14]Carolinea.

[15]Brownea.

[16]Eugenia Michellii.

[17]Swinburne.

[18]Abrus precatoria.

[19]Jatropha manihot.

[20]Eulampis Jugularis.

[21]Chrysotis Augusta.

[22]Cathartes aura.

[23]Trochilus moschitus.

[24]Chlorostilbon atala.

[25]Thaumatias chronopectus.

[26]Mauritia flexuosa.

[27]This, the largest of our colonies in the West Indies, and the only one in South America, comprises the three counties of Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice, which derive their names from the three principal rivers which border them. Georgetown, the capital, and seat of Government, has a population of 37,000 inhabitants, whilst the total population of the colony approaches 240,000. The coast line of British Guiana on the Atlantic is about 280 miles in length, and in breadth the country varies from 200 to 450 miles, the total area being estimated at 76,000 square miles. Its boundaries inland may be said to be Venezuela, Brazil, and Dutch Guiana, but the precise limits of the two former are still undetermined. Cultivation is restricted to a long narrow strip of the coast and along the banks of the rivers for a few miles. The whole of the cultivated area is under 80,000 acres, and the greater part of that is in sugar cane alone.

[28]As there is no natural fall of water, these open trenches, which are seen everywhere in the country as well as town, are necessary to carry off surface water to prevent flooding in the wet season. By sluice-gates the town trenches can be flooded when required.

[29]Couroupita Guianensis.

[30]Gelasimus vocans.

[31]Anablaps tetraophthalmus.

[32]Phœnicircus carnifex.

[33]Centrifugals are open round boxes of metal, pierced like gauze. These are whisked round and round at a tremendous speed, and the molasses flying out through the gauze leave the sugar white and dry.

[34]Physalia atlantica.

[35]Avicenna nitida.

[36]Coryphœ cerifera.

[37]Provisions intended to last for three months. Six barrels of flour, one and a half boxes of cod fish; three bags of brown rice; three barrels of ship’s biscuit; one hundred and forty pounds of bacon; seventy-five pounds of coffee; one barrel of sugar; one case of brandy; fifty pounds of onions; twelve gallons of split peas. Also a small quantity of canned provisions.

[38]Chaconia Calycophyllum.

[39]Mora excelsa.

[40]Nectandra Rodiei.

[41]Oreodaphne sp.

[42]Hybiscus elatus.

[43]Eperua falcata.

[44]Topaza pella.

[45]Cacicus citrius.

[46]Mycteria Americana.

[47]Gynericum.

[48]Myletes pacu.

[49]Paiworie is a drink made from cassava bread, which is prepared in the same disgusting way, viz.: by chewing, as is the “kava” of the islanders of the South Seas. When a drinking feast is at hand the women are occupied for several days in chewing cassava, which with the addition of hot water gradually fills an enormous wooden trough, shaped like a canoe, and capable of containing a hundred and fifty gallons. On the appointed day, the invited guests dressed in their best feathers and decorated with teeth and beads in the latest styles, assemble round the trough. A preliminary song and dance are indulged in, then the calabashes are dipped into the intoxicating beverage, and the orgie commences. It does not finish until the paiworie is exhausted, or not a soul is left with a leg to stand upon. The scenes incident to such a performance need no description.

[50]Crax alector.

[51]Plotius anhinga.

[52]Ibis infuscata.

[53]Lachesis rhombeata.

[54]Trigonocephalus.

[55]Eunectes murinus.

[56]Anacardium occidentale.

[57]A woodskin is constructed out of a single piece of bark of a tree—generally the purple-heart. After the bark has been removed from the wood it is kept open by cross sticks, and the extremities are supported on beams so as to raise those parts. A more cranky affair cannot be imagined, and even to step into one required the greatest care; and if upset it sinks instantly, owing to the great specific gravity of the bark, which is hardly one-eighth of an inch in thickness. Its great advantage is that it can float where no boat or canoe could possibly pass. Some of the large ones will carry six or seven persons and their effects.

[58]Serra salmo.

[59]Bixa Orellana.

[60]Genipa Americana.

[61]We found it very difficult to determine with any exactness the names of mountains and falls, not only on account of the names themselves, but also from the Indian habit of slurring over the last syllables. Then again different tribes have different names for localities, and not unfrequently the various parts of mountains and even of rapids are called by various denominations. By constant repetition we approached as nearly as we could to the names uttered.

[62]Dasyprocta agouti.

[63]The Indians to the present day do not recognise in the alligator that shapeless fleshy mass, which is incapable of extension, as a tongue. Herodotus, too, who was a keen observer of the crocodile, repeats the idea that it is tongueless, and for that reason was regarded by the Egyptians as an emblem of mystery.

[64]Paca caligenis.

[65]Capybara.

[66]Caladium arborescens.

[67]In speaking of the course of the Mazaruni, Mr. Barrington Brown in his “Geology of British Guiana,” says that it rises in the “Merumé mountains, part of the Pacaraima group, at a height of 2,400 feet above the sea, near the 60th degree of west longitude; it runs eastward for some miles, curving round to the south in 68° 8´ 30´´ west longitude, and 5° 34´ 23´´ north latitude, and descends to a level of 2,000 feet. From this it flows in a tortuous course in a west-north-west direction to the Cako river mouth, in 60° 44´ west and 5° 47´ 11´´ north, being joined on the way by numerous large tributaries, and descending by a set of high falls at Chi-chi to a level of 1,400 feet above the sea. Flowing smoothly along at this altitude in a north-north-west direction to Sericoeng, it is precipitated down a succession of lofty falls, occupying a distance of eight miles to a level of 500 feet. Passing along at this level with a north-north-east course, it plunges over two more sets of falls to a height of 150 feet, and, emerging from the sandstone mountains in 6° 26´ 14´´ north latitude, turns suddenly to the east-north-east for a distance of 105 miles to Teboco cataract, passing on the way near the foot of the Merumé mountains, 20 miles to the northward of its source.”

[68]The “lucanani,” or sun-fish, so called from a golden ring in its tail, weighs five or six pounds, and its flesh is by many preferred to that of the pacu. A peculiarity in the habits of this fish is that, when the young—which always swim near the mother—are in danger, the mother opens her mouth and they all rush in.

[69]During our journey the principal butterflies that we noticed were as follows:—“Morpho Adonis,” of the most brilliant azure blue.“Urania Leilus,” with black velvet ground and golden green bands of a silky lustre, and black tail.“Marius Thetis,” tawny, with narrow black lines.“Erycina Octavius,” dark bands and crimson spots, long black tail with crimson patch.“Papilio Æneas,” velvet black wings, with red patch in middle of hinder wing, upper wings with large green spot.“Papilio Sinon,” black wings with pale green bands.“Callidryas Eubule,” surface of wings a fine yellow.“Vanessa Amathea,” dark brown surface, with broad band of deep red across centre of wings, which are edged with white spots.“Heliconia Cynisca,” surface deep black, red at base of upper wings, under wings with red stripes.

[69]During our journey the principal butterflies that we noticed were as follows:—

“Morpho Adonis,” of the most brilliant azure blue.

“Urania Leilus,” with black velvet ground and golden green bands of a silky lustre, and black tail.

“Marius Thetis,” tawny, with narrow black lines.

“Erycina Octavius,” dark bands and crimson spots, long black tail with crimson patch.

“Papilio Æneas,” velvet black wings, with red patch in middle of hinder wing, upper wings with large green spot.

“Papilio Sinon,” black wings with pale green bands.

“Callidryas Eubule,” surface of wings a fine yellow.

“Vanessa Amathea,” dark brown surface, with broad band of deep red across centre of wings, which are edged with white spots.

“Heliconia Cynisca,” surface deep black, red at base of upper wings, under wings with red stripes.

[70]Buprestis gigas.

[71]The “kanaima” is a secret murderer who performs his work generally by poison.

[72]The “peaiman” is the sorcerer and doctor of the tribe.

[73]The “didi” is supposed to be a wild man of the woods, possessed of immense strength and covered with hair.

[74]Tinamus Brasiliensis.

[75]Odontophorus Guianensis.

[76]Brownea racemosa.

[77]Ardea cocoi.

[78]Ardea myrticorax.

[79]Procnias carunculata.

[80]“Amblyornis inornata.” Dr. Beccari, the well-known Italian naturalist, in describing the home of this species of paradise-bird says: “Directly in front of its cabin is a level space occupying a superficies about as large as that of the structure itself, which has a diameter of about a metre. It is a small lawn of soft moss, all transported thither, kept smooth and clean and free from grass, weeds, stones, and other objects not in harmony with its design. Over this graceful green carpet are scattered flowers and fruit of brilliant colours in such a manner that they really present the appearance of an elegant little garden. After these objects have been exposed for some time, and have lost their freshness, they are taken from their abode and thrown away, and are replaced by others.”

[81]Felis onca.

[82]The hammocks of Indians are invariably of a greasy red colour from contact with their painted bodies.

[83]Icica heptaphylla.

[84]I use the expression “Venezuelan side” because of our own idea of the national boundaries, but the Venezuelans claim as theirs the territory stretching east as far as the Essequibo river, and south to Brazil almost to the River Parima.

[85]Janipha Coeflingo.

[86]Psophia crepitans.

[87]Anas moschata.

[88]Ampelis cotinga.

[89]Cyperus alternifolius.

[90]Lacythis ollaris.

[91]Carapa Guianensis.

[92]Cyphorinus cantans.

[93]I have adhered to the spelling of Roraima as laid down by Sir R. Schomburgh and Mr. Barrington Brown, but the natives certainly pronounce the “ai” in the same way that they pronounce the i in Marima,i.e.Mareema. It may be, as in other cases, that different tribes have different pronunciations of the same name.

[94]Most of these so-called mountains are little more than high hill ranges, but their excessive steepness and the difficult nature of the ascent render them far from despicable.

[95]Cladonia reticulata.

[96]The height of Roraima above the sea is about 8000 feet; the table-land from which it rises being about 3,500 feet above sea level.

[97]Ladenbergia densiflora.

[98]Milvulus forficatus.

[99]Sturnella magna.

[100]Myrmecophaga jubata.

[101]Cleistes rosea.

[102]Stanhopea oculata.

[103]Tillandsia lingulata.

[104]Sobralia Elizabetha.

[105]Thibaudia Pichinchensis.

[106]Waterton, in speaking of the blow-pipe says that this extraordinary tube of death is, perhaps, one of the greatest natural curiosities of Guiana. The amazingly long reed of which it is composed grows hollow without knot or joint. This is called the Ourah. Being of itself too slender to answer the end of a blow-pipe, a species of Palma is used as a case in which they put the Ourah. This outer case is called Samourah. The arrow—poisoned—is from nine to ten inches in length.

[107]Nasua.

[108]The “ha-ha” is a wicker shield, with which the opponents try to push each other down.

[109]The Monouri ant is used by the Indians as one of the ingredients in preparing the deadly Wourali poison.

[110]The names of these and the other falls marked in the map were given to us by Lanceman, who claimed familiarity with all of them.

[111]In the mountainous district of Mérida—another of the States of Venezuela—the Sierra Nevada peak attains an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet above the sea.

[112]Amongst the few coleoptera that I recognised were those of the curious genus Brentus and the giant Prionus. There were also brilliant silver green Curculios, golden green and coppery Buprestidæ, steel blue Scarabœi glossed with purple, and a few specimens of Phaucus lancifer, whose golden body was tinged with green and violet.

[113]Tanagra septicolor.

[114]“Amais la libertad? pues—vivais en la campagna.”

[115]Bersimum glactodendron.

[116]Mr. Otis says: “Among the most important concessions by the terms of this contract was one guaranteeing that all public lands lying on the line of the road were to be used gratuitously by the Company, also a gift of 250,000 acres of land, to be selected by the grantees from any public lands on the Isthmus. Two ports, one on the Atlantic and the other on the Pacific (which were to be the termini of the road) were to be free ports; and the privilege was granted of establishing such tolls as the Company might think proper. The contract was to continue in force for forty-nine years, subject to the right of New Granada to take possession of the road at the expiration of twenty years after its completion, on payment of five millions of dollars; on the expiration of thirty years on payment of four millions; and at the expiration of forty years on payment of two millions. Three per cent was to be paid to the New Granada government upon all dividends declared. The entire work was to be completed within eight years.”

[117]Crotophaga.

[118]Owing to the rapid decay of the wooden poles which were formerly used, the chief engineer (Colonel Totten) conceived the idea of moulding a support of concrete. A small scantling of pitch pine was placed upright and surrounded by a jointed wooden mould, fifteen inches in diameter at base, tapering to about eight inches at the top and sunk into the earth sufficiently for support; this was filled with concrete. When the mould was removed, it was found firm and strong and well adapted to the purpose, being perfectly weather and insect proof. These posts have the appearance of hewn stone.

[119]Peristeria elata.

[120]The author of “Three Years in Chili,” says, “The grass of which they—Panama hats—are made is found chiefly in the neighbouring province of San Cristoval. They can be braided only in the night or early in the morning, as the heat in the day-time renders the grass brittle. It takes a native about three months to braid one of the finest quality, and I saw some hats which looked like fine linen, and are valued at fifty dollars apiece even here.”

[121]Cathartes aura.

[122]“Historical Record upon the Boundaries between the Republic of Colombia and the Empire of Brazil,” By José M. Quijano Otero.

[123]It seems to have slipped the notice both of the proposers and those to whom it was proposed, that by no possible means could a line following the Cuyuni river reach the Roraima range or anywhere near it.—J.W.B.W.

13, Great Marlborough Street.

ROYAL WINDSOR. ByW. Hepworth Dixon.Second Edition.Volumes I. and II. Demy 8vo. 30s. To be completed in 2 more volumes.

CONTENTS OF VOLS. I AND II.—Castle Hill, Norman Keep, First King’s House, Lion Heart, Kingless Windsor, Windsor Won, Geoffrey Plantagenet, Windsor Lost, The Fallen Deputy, The Queen Mother, Maud de Braose, The Barons’ War, Second King’s House, Edward of Carnarvon, Perot de Gaveston, Isabel de France, Edward of Windsor, Crecy, Patron Saints, St. George, Society of St. George, Lady Salisbury, David King of Scots, Third King’s House, Ballad Windsor, The Fair Countess, Richard of Bordeaux, Court Parties, Royal Favourites, Rehearsing for Windsor, In the Great Hall, Simon de Burley, Radcote Bridge, A Feast of Death, Geoffrey Chaucer, At Winchester Tower, St. George’s Chapel, The Little Queen, At Windsor, Duchess Philippote, The Windsor Plot, Bolingbroke, Court of Chivalry, Wager of Battle, Deserted Little Queen, Captive Little Queen, A New Year’s Plot, Night of the Kings, Exit Little Queen, Dona Juana, Constance of York, The Norman Tower, The Legal Heir, Prince Hal, The Devil’s Tower, In Captivity Captive, Attempt at Rescue, Agincourt, Kaiser Sigismund, The Witch Queen, Sweet Kate, The Maid of Honour, Lady Jane, Henry of Windsor, Richard of York, Two Duchesses, York and Lancaster, Union of the Roses.“‘Royal Windsor’ follows in the same lines as ‘Her Majesty’s Tower,’ and aims at weaving a series of popular sketches of striking events which centre round Windsor Castle. Mr. Dixon makes everything vivid and picturesque. Those who liked ‘Her Majesty’s Tower’ will find these volumes equally pleasant reading.”—Athenæum.“A truly fine and interesting book. It is a valuable contribution to English history; worthy of Mr. Dixon’s fame, worthy of its grand subject.”—Morning Post.“Mr. Dixon has supplied us with a highly entertaining book. ‘Royal Windsor’ is eminently a popular work, bristling with anecdotes and amusing sketches of historical characters. It is carefully written, and is exceedingly pleasant reading. The story is brightly told; not a dull page can be found. Mr. Dixon is to be congratulated on having put so much information into so agreeable a shape.”—Examiner.“These volumes will quickly find favour with the widest and most inclusive circle of readers. From the first days of Norman Windsor to the Plantagenet period Mr. Dixon tells the story of this famous castle in his own picturesque, bright, and vigorous way.”—Daily Telegraph.“Mr. Hepworth Dixon has found a congenial subject in ‘Royal Windsor.’ His exploration of the Tower of London for a similar purpose, and the curious and careful researches which his study of that fatal fortress occasioned, had furnished him with an abundance and variety of materials for his present monograph on an ancient keep and palace of the English Monarchy. Under the sanction of the Queen, he has enjoyed exceptional opportunities of most searching and complete investigation of the Royal House and every other part of Windsor Castle, in and out, above ground and below ground.”—Daily News.“‘Royal Windsor’ is a worthy companion to ‘Her Majesty’s Tower.’ It brings before the reader with no less fidelity the splendid pageants of history, and it gives an animated series of tableaux, the characters in which are so life-like that they seem again to pass in very flesh and blood before our eyes.”—Sunday Times.“In ‘Royal Windsor’ Mr. Dixon has found a subject most rich in opportunities for the gorgeous word-painting and the dramatic power of which he has unquestionable command. The Royal dwelling in its various phases—Saxon hunting-lodge, Norman keep, and Palace-Castle, altered, enriched, and added to by king after king—supplies in vulgar phrase the peg on which to hang the storied chronicle of the kings and captives who all these years have tenanted its walls. The work is pre-eminently one for the general public.”—Graphic.

“‘Royal Windsor’ follows in the same lines as ‘Her Majesty’s Tower,’ and aims at weaving a series of popular sketches of striking events which centre round Windsor Castle. Mr. Dixon makes everything vivid and picturesque. Those who liked ‘Her Majesty’s Tower’ will find these volumes equally pleasant reading.”—Athenæum.

“A truly fine and interesting book. It is a valuable contribution to English history; worthy of Mr. Dixon’s fame, worthy of its grand subject.”—Morning Post.

“Mr. Dixon has supplied us with a highly entertaining book. ‘Royal Windsor’ is eminently a popular work, bristling with anecdotes and amusing sketches of historical characters. It is carefully written, and is exceedingly pleasant reading. The story is brightly told; not a dull page can be found. Mr. Dixon is to be congratulated on having put so much information into so agreeable a shape.”—Examiner.

“These volumes will quickly find favour with the widest and most inclusive circle of readers. From the first days of Norman Windsor to the Plantagenet period Mr. Dixon tells the story of this famous castle in his own picturesque, bright, and vigorous way.”—Daily Telegraph.

“Mr. Hepworth Dixon has found a congenial subject in ‘Royal Windsor.’ His exploration of the Tower of London for a similar purpose, and the curious and careful researches which his study of that fatal fortress occasioned, had furnished him with an abundance and variety of materials for his present monograph on an ancient keep and palace of the English Monarchy. Under the sanction of the Queen, he has enjoyed exceptional opportunities of most searching and complete investigation of the Royal House and every other part of Windsor Castle, in and out, above ground and below ground.”—Daily News.

“‘Royal Windsor’ is a worthy companion to ‘Her Majesty’s Tower.’ It brings before the reader with no less fidelity the splendid pageants of history, and it gives an animated series of tableaux, the characters in which are so life-like that they seem again to pass in very flesh and blood before our eyes.”—Sunday Times.

“In ‘Royal Windsor’ Mr. Dixon has found a subject most rich in opportunities for the gorgeous word-painting and the dramatic power of which he has unquestionable command. The Royal dwelling in its various phases—Saxon hunting-lodge, Norman keep, and Palace-Castle, altered, enriched, and added to by king after king—supplies in vulgar phrase the peg on which to hang the storied chronicle of the kings and captives who all these years have tenanted its walls. The work is pre-eminently one for the general public.”—Graphic.

A LEGACY: Being the Life and Remains ofJohn Martin,Schoolmaster and Poet. Written and Edited by the Author of “John Halifax.” 2 vols. crown 8vo. With Portrait. 21s.

“This is, in many respects, a remarkable book. It records the life, work, aspirations, and death of a schoolmaster and poet, of lowly birth but high-strung and ambitious soul. His writings brim with vivid thought, keen analysis of feeling, touches of poetic sentiment, and trenchant criticism of men and books, expressed in scholarly language.”—Guardian.“Mrs. Craik has related a beautiful and pathetic story—a story of faith and courage and untiring energy on the part of a young and gifted man, who might under other circumstances have won a place in literature. The story is one worth reading.”—Pall Mall Gazette.“In these volumes a well-known novelist presents us with a history so touching, so marvellous, and so simple, as no invention could produce. Few more pathetic or more instructive volumes have fallen in our way.”—Morning Post.“We strongly recommend our readers to procure this charming book, not only because it is a gem of beautiful writing, showing the finished style and graceful heart of the talented authoress, but because the subject matter in itself is of absorbing interest.”—Church Review.

“Mrs. Craik has related a beautiful and pathetic story—a story of faith and courage and untiring energy on the part of a young and gifted man, who might under other circumstances have won a place in literature. The story is one worth reading.”—Pall Mall Gazette.

“In these volumes a well-known novelist presents us with a history so touching, so marvellous, and so simple, as no invention could produce. Few more pathetic or more instructive volumes have fallen in our way.”—Morning Post.

“We strongly recommend our readers to procure this charming book, not only because it is a gem of beautiful writing, showing the finished style and graceful heart of the talented authoress, but because the subject matter in itself is of absorbing interest.”—Church Review.

A YOUNG SQUIRE OF THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY,from the Papers ofChristopher Jeaffreson, of Dullingham House, Cambridgeshire. Edited byJohn Cordy Jeaffreson, Author of “A Book about Doctors,” &c. 2 vols. crown 8vo. 21s.

“Two volumes of very attractive matter:—letters which illustrate agriculture, commerce, war, love, and social manners, accounts of passing public events, and details which are not to be found in the Gazettes, and which come with singular freshness from private letters.”—Athenæum.“Two agreeable and important volumes. They deserve to be placed on library shelves with Pepys, Evelyn, and Reresby.”—Notes and Queries.“In the interests of history a publication such as the present is of almost incalculable value. Every historical student ought to make himself acquainted with these two very delightful volumes.”—Morning Post.

“Two agreeable and important volumes. They deserve to be placed on library shelves with Pepys, Evelyn, and Reresby.”—Notes and Queries.

“In the interests of history a publication such as the present is of almost incalculable value. Every historical student ought to make himself acquainted with these two very delightful volumes.”—Morning Post.

HISTORY OF ENGLISH HUMOUR.By the Rev.A. G. L’Estrange, Author of “The Life of the Rev. W. Harness,” &c. 2 vols. crown 8vo. 21s.

“This work contains a large and varied amount of information. It is impossible to give any idea of the wealth of anecdote and epigram in its pages, and for anything like a proper appreciation of its value we must refer our readers to the book itself.”—John Bull.“This work gives evidence of a vast deal of industry and study of the subject, and is distinguished by considerable analytical power, and contains many pleasant anecdotes.”—Morning Post.“A book of the highest mark and character. The literary man, the antiquarian, and the historian will combine in pronouncing it worthy of admission into every well-selected library.”—Messenger.

“This work gives evidence of a vast deal of industry and study of the subject, and is distinguished by considerable analytical power, and contains many pleasant anecdotes.”—Morning Post.

“A book of the highest mark and character. The literary man, the antiquarian, and the historian will combine in pronouncing it worthy of admission into every well-selected library.”—Messenger.

MY LIFE, from 1815 to 1819.ByCharles Loftus,formerly of the Royal Navy, late of the Coldstream Guards. Author of “My Youth by Sea and Land.” 2 vols. crown 8vo. 21s.

“The praise which theAthenæumgave to the first portion of Major Loftus’s work, may be fairly awarded to the second. These reminiscences are pleasantly told. There is a cheeriness about them which communicates itself to the reader.”—Athenæum.“A thoroughly interesting and readable book, which we heartily recommend as one of the most characteristic autobiographies we ever read.”—Standard.

“A thoroughly interesting and readable book, which we heartily recommend as one of the most characteristic autobiographies we ever read.”—Standard.

THE THEATRE FRANÇAIS IN THE REIGN OF LOUIS XV.ByAlexander Baillie Cochrane, M.P. 1 vol. demy 8vo. 15s.

CONVERSATIONS with M. Thiers, M. Guizot,and other Distinguished Persons, during the Second Empire. By the LateNassau W. Senior. Edited by his Daughter,M. C. M. Simpson. 2 vols. demy 8vo. 30s.

Among other persons whose conversations are recorded in these volumes are King Leopold; the Duc de Broglie; Lord Cowley; Counts Arrivabene, Corcelle, Daru, Flahault, Kergolay, Montalembert; Generals Lamoricière and Chrzanowski; Sir Henry Ellis; Messieurs Ampère, Beaumont, Blanchard, Bouffet, Auguste Chevalier, Victor Cousin, De Witt, Duchâtel, Ducpetiaux, Dumon, Dussard, Duvergier de Hauranne, Léon Faucher, Frère-Orban, Grimblot, Guizot, Lafitte, Labaume, Lamartine, Lanjuinais, Mallac, Manin, Mérimée, Mignet, Jules Mohl, Montanelli, Odillon-Barrot, Quêtelet, Rémusat, Rogier, Rivet, Rossini, Horace Say, Thiers, Trouvé-Chauvel, Villemain, Wolowski; Mesdames Circourt, Cornu, Ristori, &c.“This new series of Mr. Senior’s ‘Conversations’ has been for some years past known in manuscript to his more intimate friends, and it has always been felt that no former series would prove more valuable or important. Mr. Senior had a social position which gave him admission into the best literary and political circles of Paris. He was a cultivated and sensible man, who knew how to take full advantage of such an opening. And above all, he had by long practice so trained his memory as to enable it to recall all the substance, and often the words, of the long conversations which he was always holding. These conversations he wrote down with a surprising accuracy, and then handed the manuscript to his friends, that they might correct or modify his report of what they had said. This book thus contains the opinions of eminent men given in the freedom of conversation, and afterwards carefully revised. Of their value there cannot be a question. The book is one of permanent historical interest. There is scarcely a page without some memorable statement by some memorable man. Politics and society and literature—the three great interests that make up life—are all discussed in turn, and there is no discussion which is unproductive of weighty thought or striking fact.”—Athenæum.“The present selection of Mr. Senior’s Journals, edited with remarkable skill and judgment by Mrs. Simpson, is extraordinarily full and interesting. Although the unreserved and original communications of Thiers are especially fascinating, the book would be abundantly interesting if it consisted only of the reports of conversations with Guizot, Montalembert, Cousin, Lamartine, and other persons of celebrity and eminence.”—Saturday Review.“These conversations extend from the year 1852 to 1860, and will be found to refer to some of the most interesting public events of our time—the Revolution of 1848, the Crimean War, the French Alliance, the attempt on the life of Louis Napoleon, the Indian Mutiny, and the Italian campaign of 1859. Besides these great public occurrences of European celebrity, we have many very curious and piquant anecdotes of a private character, and expressions of opinion on men and things by persons of eminence. All that is said in these volumes of France, England, and Russia, is as interesting now as when it was first uttered.”—Standard.“The two new volumes of the late Mr. Nassau Senior’s most interesting conversations give us the ideas of some eminent foreign statesmen on the Eastern Question. They embrace the eventful years from 1852 to 1860, during which Mr. Senior paid prolonged visits to Paris, and conversed on the most confidential terms with some of the shrewdest men of the time. They set forth the opinions of those who had the best means of informing themselves on Russian objects and English interests. They abound, besides, in most interesting details as to the personal character of the Emperor Nicholas and his successor; as to the relations of Russia and Austria; as to the social condition and resources of the two empires; as to the considerations that govern their policy, and their respective capabilities as fighting Powers.”—Blackwood’s Magazine.

“This new series of Mr. Senior’s ‘Conversations’ has been for some years past known in manuscript to his more intimate friends, and it has always been felt that no former series would prove more valuable or important. Mr. Senior had a social position which gave him admission into the best literary and political circles of Paris. He was a cultivated and sensible man, who knew how to take full advantage of such an opening. And above all, he had by long practice so trained his memory as to enable it to recall all the substance, and often the words, of the long conversations which he was always holding. These conversations he wrote down with a surprising accuracy, and then handed the manuscript to his friends, that they might correct or modify his report of what they had said. This book thus contains the opinions of eminent men given in the freedom of conversation, and afterwards carefully revised. Of their value there cannot be a question. The book is one of permanent historical interest. There is scarcely a page without some memorable statement by some memorable man. Politics and society and literature—the three great interests that make up life—are all discussed in turn, and there is no discussion which is unproductive of weighty thought or striking fact.”—Athenæum.

“The present selection of Mr. Senior’s Journals, edited with remarkable skill and judgment by Mrs. Simpson, is extraordinarily full and interesting. Although the unreserved and original communications of Thiers are especially fascinating, the book would be abundantly interesting if it consisted only of the reports of conversations with Guizot, Montalembert, Cousin, Lamartine, and other persons of celebrity and eminence.”—Saturday Review.

“These conversations extend from the year 1852 to 1860, and will be found to refer to some of the most interesting public events of our time—the Revolution of 1848, the Crimean War, the French Alliance, the attempt on the life of Louis Napoleon, the Indian Mutiny, and the Italian campaign of 1859. Besides these great public occurrences of European celebrity, we have many very curious and piquant anecdotes of a private character, and expressions of opinion on men and things by persons of eminence. All that is said in these volumes of France, England, and Russia, is as interesting now as when it was first uttered.”—Standard.

“The two new volumes of the late Mr. Nassau Senior’s most interesting conversations give us the ideas of some eminent foreign statesmen on the Eastern Question. They embrace the eventful years from 1852 to 1860, during which Mr. Senior paid prolonged visits to Paris, and conversed on the most confidential terms with some of the shrewdest men of the time. They set forth the opinions of those who had the best means of informing themselves on Russian objects and English interests. They abound, besides, in most interesting details as to the personal character of the Emperor Nicholas and his successor; as to the relations of Russia and Austria; as to the social condition and resources of the two empires; as to the considerations that govern their policy, and their respective capabilities as fighting Powers.”—Blackwood’s Magazine.

HISTORY OF TWO QUEENS:CATHARINE OF ARAGON and ANNE BOLEYN. ByW. Hepworth Dixon.Second Edition.Vols. 1 & 2. Demy 8vo. 30s.

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