HUNTING A HOME IN BRAZIL. (continued 8)

The atmosphere is also free from fogs or any other undue dampness. I am here in what is known to be the rainy season of this country, and setting out from the homestead of Senor Miguel Antonio Jorge on Saturday, the 13th inst., we ascended the Ribeira de Ignape for twenty-five miles, and during the entire day the sun was shining brightly, and only a mere sprinkle late in the evening for a few moments. On the following day we crossed the range of hills at right angles from the river, proceeding some eight or ten miles, and again the sun shone brightly all the day without any thing more than a light sprinkle late in the afternoon. On the third day we traversed hills and valleys on a line parallel with the Ribeira for a distance of fifteen miles, and still the sun shone brightly throughout the day with no signs of rain until night. On the fourth day the sun beamed forth again, and the brightness of the fifth was only marred by a sprinkle in the evening.

Friday, January 19, 1866.

My friend Senor Miguel Antonio Jorge arranged that his son, Senor Guilherme, should accompany me to-day to visit the lands lying between our former route and the river. Setting out with a guide from Caiacauga, we proceeded nearly four miles upon the road by which we returned from our former tour, and then diverging to the right hand, we passed through a portion of land lying favorably, 349and with good soil. This is located upon a stream which forms the line of division between the territory which Senor Miguel proposes to sell and that of his home place.

This stream further up has a good site for machinery, which is located upon lands of Senor João Franco, that will be disposed of if they are desired. This point would serve a good purpose in regard to much of the land, which is best suited for agricultural operations, yet it is six or eight miles from the Ribeira, upon which shipment must be made.

With a view to accommodate the products of these lands, Senor Miguel proposes to donate land for a depot on the river below his residence, to which point there is a practicable route for a road, which is now in use.

After passing the mill site to which allusion is above made, we ascended a very steep mountain, and the descent was equally steep on the other side, so that this soil, though presenting a favorable aspect, is not likely to be in requisition for cultivation.

Leaving this elevation we visited a coffee field of Senor Francisco de Paula, upon the slope of a high hill. The trees were generally about six years growth, and consequently at that age when the yield should be best, yet the crop was by no means good, while the size and appearance of the trees was unfavorable.

Whether the nature of the soil or the manner of planting may be the cause of the failure, I could form no definite opinion.

Immediately at the villa of Xiririca a field of coffee, with fifteen thousand trees, belonging to Senor João Franco, gave a much more encouraging prospect for the culture of coffee.

These trees are for the most part four years old, and while larger and healthy, they were loaded heavily with fruit, presenting by far the most favorable aspect of any trees of the same age that have been seen anywhere.

Here seems also to be an exception in the growth of the 350coffee tree upon the level plain near the river, and although the bluff is high, so that there is never an overflow of this land, yet it is what is usually denominated as bottom land with us.

It has been alleged that in this whole region of country, the coffee plant does not bear but a few years, when it declines, or even dies.

But in the ground adjoining these trees, some antiquated trees, supposed to be fifty years old, are still standing, without any special indication of decay, and I have seen elsewhere very old trees bearing fruit.

There seems nothing in the nature of the soil, or the character of the climate throughout this region, to preclude the proper growth of coffee.

On our route to-day several fields of corn were passed, which presented a fine prospect for a yield, and especially did the crops of corn look well near the road as we approached the villa. I am not fully prepared to give an opinion as to the result, from simply seeing a vigorous stalk, before the ears are formed, but enough of the crop is now earing to afford a guarantee of a good yield, and with improved culture, corn will most assuredly turn out well.

The road leading into the villa from the lands previously visited had been reached by us before, some four miles from the villa, and now the exploration of it was continued.

The route upon which the road is located is very favorable for the construction of a good wagon-road, and by this line of communication the products of the lands belonging to the tracts of Aborbora and Braço de Gado could readily be brought to the villa of Xiririca for shipment.

There are lands belonging to the public domain in close proximity to these private lands, of which I have a very favorable report from Captain Buhlaw, formerly an officer of the engineer department in the Confederate service, and now employed by the Brazilian government to survey these lands. In connection with a portion of this territory first 351examined, and lying nearest the river, I expect to effect a provisional arrangement with the government of Brazil for such an extent of public land as will accommodate those families who look to me for a selection.

These private lands lie almost parallel with the course of the river, at a distance of from four to six miles from it, and their products may all reach this navigable stream either at Xiririca or Caiacauga; while those located higher up, and extending to the Ribeira de Ignape, have a direct shipment by canoes. The latter may deposit their cargoes at Xiririca for the steamboat, or make the trips entire to Ignape, as is done at present by many of the planters.

There are other private lands which may be secured, of similar quality to those described, and so situated as to communicate readily with the Rio Jacupiranga, which is navigable with the largest size of canoes into the lower part of the Ribeira de Ignape.

The largest portion of these lands being owned by Senor Miguel Antonio Jorge, he proposes, if it is desirable, to arrange with other parties for the transfer of these lands, so as to bring all into one compact body, which would enable our people to divide this territory more advantageously among themselves, and to exclude those who might not be desirable neighbors.

A paper has been received from this gentleman, in which the price of his land is fixed at eighty-eight cents per acre, the houses with straw covering going with the land, while those with tile roofs are to be valued separately. It is specified that the payments be made in three equal instalments, at the end of the third, fourth and fifth years from the date of the purchase, and the whole without interest.

Should any one desire to anticipate the time fixed for payment, a discount of six per cent. per annum for such years as the amount was to remain unpaid will be allowed upon receiving the payment. It is also stated that his large fazenda, containing about one square league of land, 352located immediately upon the banks of the Ribeira de Ignape, will be sold if it is desired. This place is known as Ponto-Grosso, and is only forty miles above the town of Ignape, with every facility of machinery and buildings that would be requisite for a large business. A notice of it will be seen under the record of the 10th inst. The price fixed for this place is ten thousand (10,000) dollars, with the same time and conditions as specified for the other lands.

There is, likewise, another place immediately upon the river some fifteen miles above this fazenda, where cattle are at present reared, and, though not in cultivation, presents an elevated regular outline with indications of fertility. This tract of land has a front on the water of perhaps three-fourths of a mile, and a depth of two miles, yet the exact measurements of this, as most of the land in this region of country, have not been as yet ascertained. If Ponto-Grosso should be sold this would likewise be disposed of, but not otherwise, as it is a stopping place in passing from Caiacauga to the above-named fazenda.

As there are no cotton-gins introduced along this river, and a considerable amount of cotton now planted, Ponto-Grosso would be a favorable location for an extensive ginning establishment, or even for a cotton factory.

Saturday, January 20, 1866.

My friends of Caiacauga having treated me throughout my sojourn here with the greatest possible kindness, Senor Miguel and his very accomplished wife, Donna Maria, walked with me to the canoe-landing this morning, to give me their best wishes upon leaving their house. The noble hospitality of these people exceeds any thing I ever expected to realize among strangers, and, apart from any interested motive, I believe it affords them a satisfaction to contribute to the enjoyment of a guest.

It being arranged that my young friend, Senor Guilherme, would accompany me, we embarked at 11 o’clock A. M. with 353two sturdy negro fellows to paddle us down the river; and making a pleasant voyage, we reached Ponto-Grosso at 6½ o’clock P. M.

An ample stock of provisions had been supplied by my hostess for the entire trip to Ignape, consisting of chickens, fried fish, boiled rice, excellent bread, farina, bananas, figs, and pine-apples. In addition to these, we were supplied with a kind of beefsteak, enveloped in eggs and fried, so as to afford a most palatable dish. Having partaken freely of our stores on the way, a cup of coffee was all that I cared to take upon arrival, though Senor Guilherme insisted upon having a warm supper prepared.

Previous to visiting this region of country, nothing could be learned definitely in regard to its adaptation to the growth of the staple commodities, corn, cotton, and coffee; but my observations lead to the conclusion that each of them may be produced here advantageously.

Corn has been heretofore one of the principal articles of export to Santos and Rio de Janeiro; and, in the form of big hominy, is used to a considerable extent in the country. But corn bread is not known here, though the farina is frequently made when that of the mandioca is not at hand. The white flint corn is the only kind which is planted, and though the ears are not large, it seems to be a sound, good grain.

The common white corn is said to be much more liable to injury from weevils than this hard variety; and the yellow or red corn is not found so marketable in the form of big hominy, which is dried and shipped in large quantities. A change of seed and improved culture would doubtless secure better results in the growth of corn.

Cotton has been grown in this region by a few persons for several years, with results that are conclusive as to the favorable yield, and yet systematic culture is requisite to test fully the quality and quantity that may be produced in these river lands. Should the improved appliances and 354the skilled labor of the Southern States be applied to the culture of cotton here, I am satisfied the yield will exceed that of the lands in the United States; and it is likely that the amount of cotton grown in Brazil within a few years will affect very much the markets of the world. The labor of production is materially lessened by its continuous growth from the same stalk, which is annually cut off and yields again full crops.

Coffee has been seen here in lands of various kinds, and of all ages, presenting the most favorable indications of an abundant yield. The coffee produced in former years presents also the characteristics of a good, sound grain; and I am informed that the average yield of trees equals what was stated elsewhere to be a full crop on the best lands.

Several patches of coffee trees have been seen that did not afford a prospect of good results; and it is evident that a selection of location is a matter of moment here, as it is found to be even in the districts where coffee is most successfully cultivated.

The same kind of discrimination is necessary in determining what localities are suited to the growth of other articles, and a neglect of such precautions leads to a failure in the crop of either.

Rice is recognized as a certain and prolific product of all this region, but more especially of the lower section where lands become flat and moist. Mandioca yields abundantly.

Beans, which are more prized in Brazil than any other provision crop, are found to yield well in the lands visited, and though some specimens of failure have been observed, this has, for the most part, been satisfactorily accounted for by planting out of season or other departure from good farming. An abundant crop of sugar-cane, oranges, bananas, figs, and grapes, with a most excellent quality of pine-apples, makes up a variety of products which renders this a desirable land for the settlement of those who seek a home in Brazil.

355Sunday, January 21, 1866.

Rising before day my young friend had all our baggage deposited in the canoe, and fresh eggs, with hot coffee and bread were in readiness when I was summoned from my bed. Partaking of these “fresh eggs,” etc., we resumed our voyage down the river, and I found this was not to be regarded as breakfast, but with the addition of two entire chickens to our supplies for the trip, we breakfasted at 9 o’clock A. M., and dined at 4 o’clock P. M. on the water.

We had as fellow-passenger a young porcupine, (ouriço,) that one of the negroes was taking down to sell as a pet; and finding that he was testing the quality of our figs, the negro guardian was called upon to secure the ugly little varmint at one end of the canoe.

We passed during the forenoon the mouths of the Rio Jacupiranga and the Rio Paricoera, on the latter of which I was told there are quite a number of inhabitants. Shortly after mid-day we passed through a canal, or cut through a neck of land, about one mile in length, which saved us four miles in the natural course of the river. The difference of level in the Ribeira is so slight at the entrance and outlet of this artificial communication, that the current through it is feeble, and instead of washing out it is gradually filling up from the repeated rises of the river, and our canoe had great difficulty in passing. The negroes labored hard, and one of them got out several times to push the canoe through the mud; but they worked with a good will, under the promise of a drink of rum at the close. Both had previously taken off their shirts, and with the confined air of this narrow channel, the mosquitoes, and the hard pulling, their bodies and arms were covered with perspiration before reaching the open water of the river. After getting their drink, and resting a short time, they proceeded as usual again.

Another canal was encountered at no great distance, cutting off another bend of the river, but it was much shorter, 356and there was no difficulty in the passage. On approaching the city of Ignape there is a very large artificial channel, in which a small steamboat passes; and being very straight, with the water running in the direction we came, it made a very pleasant trip of over a mile, to the immediate precincts of the city bridge.

We stopped with the brother of my young friend, Senor Dom Miguel Jorge Montinegro, who is keeping house in bachelor style, and places his establishment at my disposal in a way that relieves me of all embarrassment.

In descending the Ribeira it was observed that the corn did not present so good an appearance as it had done above, and in most places the banks were very low, so that the general surface of the land must be submerged in the floods of the river. When approaching the city the water spreads out into various channels, over an extensive area, again bringing up the resemblance to the Mississippi river near its mouth.

The tainha, a fine fish which frequents these waters at this season, was seen leaping up into the air to a distance of three feet.

Monday, January 22, 1866.

Having met the Rev. Ballard Smith Dunn, of Louisiana, at the hotel last evening, we found many topics of interest in rehearsing what had been seen by each of us in this country, and have spent this day together. He is acting in behalf of a number of families who desire to be informed in regard to Brazil, and has visited a portion of the provinces of Rio de Janeiro and Esperitos de Santos. He was favorably impressed with the inhabitants, and found some fine lands, yet did not conclude that it was desirable to locate in that region. He is now investigating the lands upon the tributaries of the Ribeira, and considers the soil adjacent to the waters of the Rio Jacupiranga of excellent quality, with a very promising prospect for crops of corn in most 357parts. In passing through, from the colony of Cananea, he reports that very fertile lands were seen, and he hopes to find in this region a desirable location for his friends. He will ascend the Rio Paricoera, and also the Rio Inquia; which latter affords an encouraging field for examination, as it is likely to be the line of communication with the great iron-works of Epanema. If he should recommend some portion of this territory for a settlement of people from the Southern States, it would strengthen very much my conviction of the advantages likely to accrue from a location in the vicinity of Xiririca, as it is extremely desirable that our people should be as far as practicable associated together.

Tuesday, January 23, 1866.

Being detained to-day in Ignape, awaiting the arrival of the steamer, to proceed to Cananea, I may note some points connected with this port of entry. It is located upon a low flat point of land, with a rugged mountain ridge rising up at a short distance from it, and the whole is surrounded by water. With a low land extending up from the city, along the Ribeira for a considerable distance, it is not a matter of surprise that the place is reported to be unhealthy, and recently there has been a very serious epidemic, bloody flux, prevailing, attended with considerable fatality, but has now ceased.

There is a very large church in the process of completion, at a central point of the buildings in the place; and the abandoned walls of an immense jail that was supposed to be in demand some years ago, but the improved morals of the population, or the want of resources, induced them to leave it unfinished. There are but few houses of two stories, conforming to the type of most of the interior towns in having one-story buildings.

The general appearance of the population does not give a favorable impression of their physical stamina, or their 358intellectual status, yet I have met several gentlemen of refinement and cleverness, among whom I may especially mention Dom Antonio Joaquim Rodrigues, Juiz de Direita, and my young friend Dom Miguel Jorge Montinegro, who holds the position corresponding to our District Attorney, or Solicitor for the State. The latter speaks some English, and we got on very pleasantly, in his snug bachelor’s retreat, during my stay.

Wednesday, January 24, 1865.

Leaving Ignape during the forenoon, in the Dom Affonso, we steamed along the inland sea, known as Mare Pequeno, and really the Bay of Venice cannot present a scene of more simple beauty than this placid sheet of water.

Several cozy-looking dwellings are located very near the margin, and the borders are fringed with green foliage, while here and there an islet is slightly elevated above the surface, and to complete the picture, water-fowls of various plumage are seen either resting upon the water or flying around with evident surprise at the presence of our little intruder.

In the course of the afternoon a heavy rain drove us from the deck into the cabin, and as the shades of evening were closing around us, the steamer reached the villa of Cananea.

Shortly after anchoring, Senor E. H. Street came aboard, and took me ashore to spend the night. We called upon Captain Buhlaw and lady, and also Mr. Hanson and lady, living in the same house. They are favorably impressed with the suitableness of the country for their future residence; and arrangements are already completed by those two gentlemen, for the location of a saw-mill upon the river Guarahu, five miles above its confluence with the Rio Jacupiranga, which proceeds thence thirty miles into the Ribeira de Ignape.

We took tea with these Southern people, and while sitting in that little social group, unfettered by any political domination, 359my thoughts turned anxiously to the fate of those who remained in the South.

Thursday, January 25, 1866.

We breakfasted with our Southern friends, and relished it the more for being prepared by the hands of the ladies. Mrs. Hanson is quite a young woman with one child, and seems prepared to take life as she may find it, saying that she only wants now to get a place fixed where she could have her own garden, and raise her own poultry, to feel entirely independent.

Mrs. Buhlaw does not seem to adapt herself so readily to this border style of living, yet she is cheerful, and hopeful of the future.

These families are sojourning only temporarily here, until arrangements for their accommodation are completed at some distance in the country.

The villa of Cananea is one of the oldest settlements in Brazil, the fleet of Martin Affonso de Sonza having landed at this place, August 12, 1531, and placed upon the island of Abrigo, at an elevated point known as Morro São Joas, two stone pillars, which are still to be seen.

This island upon which the villa is located is at the outlet of the long, narrow body of water, which we traversed in coming from Ignape. Though the mouth of the Ribeira leads out to the ocean, opposite to the city of Ignape the bar is so shallow as to preclude the passage of vessels in that direction, so that they are required to come through this Mare Pequeno, a distance of forty-five miles, for an outlet; and, if going towards Rio de Janeiro, must return along the coast the same distance, to reach the point from which they might proceed directly if the mouth of the river could be made navigable.

In view of this circuitous navigation, it is very desirable that a good wagon-road should be constructed from Xiririca across the country to the port of Cananea near the main 360land. I am informed by Senor Street and Captain Buhlaw that the route is very favorable even for a railroad; while the port is capable of admitting, with good protection, vessels of the largest size. The largest extent of public lands lies south of this proposed road, and products might be conveyed along it either to Xiririca or to the port of Cananea, as might be most convenient.

The epidemic bloody flux, which visited the city of Ignape, is now prevailing in Cananea, and has been attended with great fatality, more especially among children. In one family as many as eight persons have died in one month, and a number of deaths have occurred in other families. But the population have now to a large extent left the villa and gone into the country, where they are entirely exempt from the disease. The absence of a means of proper treatment has doubtless added very much to the fatal results, as there was no medical man residing in either of these places, and though a doctor is paid now by the province, and medicines furnished to him for the treatment of the sick at Cananea, there is but little confidence reposed in his skill or his integrity and faithfulness.

Regarding this epidemic as a transient disease, confined to these populated localities, it does not augur any thing unfavorable to the healthfulness of the country.

Friday, January 26, 1866.

Having resumed my voyage upon the Dom Affonso, Senor Street and myself were reduced to the necessity of sleeping upon the table in the small cabin, with all the apertures closed on account of a fall of rain. In addition to the crowded condition of the berths by whites, and others slightly tinged, there were several negro women of the real ebony stamp sleeping upon the floor, and with the confined air, charged with emanations from various accumulations during the night, our situation was little short of the Black Hole of Calcutta. I will say, however, for the general 361management aboard of the small and antiquated steamboat, that it was very satisfactory; and though the table does not compare with that of the Santa Maria, every thing is well prepared and clean. The large number of persons aboard indicates that a better boat with larger accommodations is needed upon this line, which makes a trip monthly, touching at the points upon the coast as far south as Santa Catharina.

Upon entering Santos we found the English steamer Galileo loading for Rio de Janeiro; and as the passage is likely to be more expeditious as well as more comfortable, Senor Street and myself with two or three other passengers have arranged to go in this vessel to-morrow morning. She is consigned to Mr. W. T. Wright.

Since my former visit, Mr. and Mrs. Wright have been favored with a daughter, which is now a month old; and she is again doing the duties of her household with her customary grace and kindness.

I am indebted to my friend, Mr. Wright, for collecting the following valuable data pertaining to this city and province, as well as the whole empire of Brazil.

Mean temperature of city of Santos, by R. J. de Balbi, Inspector of Port; transferred from Centigrade to Fahrenheit scale.

Month. 1863 1864 1865

January 83.62 80.67 No record

February 82.40 78.67 „

March 78.83 80.38 „

April 77.03 74.28 „

May 69.92 72.59 „

June 68.11 68.89 „

July 67.17 67.98 „

August 66.32 66.23 „

September 68.39 No record „

October 71.65 „ „

November 74.78 „ 75.49

December 78.22 „ 78.45

362The only practical distinction here is, into cooler and warmer season, but the classification is made and the months will be thus arranged into seasons:

Summer.—December, January, and February.

Autumn.—March, April, and May.

Winter.—June, July, and August.

Spring.—September, October, and November.

The highest temperature is about 90°, and the lowest is about 60° Fahrenheit.

The summer months constitute the rainy season, and the winter months the driest part of the year in most of the territory of Brazil.

The government of Brazil consists of the Emperor and his Council, the Senate, and House of Deputies, acting under the constitution.

The cabinet is formed as that of Great Britain; one man being commissioned by the Emperor, selects his portfolio and colleagues, he becoming president or premier of the council. The members are ministers of the empire, of foreign affairs, of finance, of war, of the navy, of justice; and under one head, of commerce, agriculture, with public works; making seven departments.

Senators are balloted for by electors, the three highest being forwarded to the Emperor, who selects one to fill the office, which is held for life. It is not requisite that he shall be a resident of the province for which he is chosen. Deputies are chosen every four years by electors. The Emperor can dissolve any congress and call for a new election as in Great Britain.

There is a judge for each district, and two terms of court each year. In trial by jury, the decision is by plurality, and grade of punishment according to majority.

Courts of appeal at Bahia, Maranhão, and other places, while there is a supreme court for higher offences. There is no grand jury, but process formed by delegado or sub-delegado of police, (corresponding to sheriff and deputy,) 363and if there is reason found for trial, indictment is sent to the municipal judge, (corresponding to magistrate,) and if approved he sends it to the district judge; and when approved by him, the case is ordered for trial before the jury. Magistrates elected by the people.

In addition to delegado and sub-delegado appointed by the President of the province for each district, there is a chief of police for each province appointed by the Emperor. Each province has its own legislature, chosen by the people. The President has veto power, which may be set aside by a two-thirds vote.

One archbishop residing at Bahia is the chief see, and there is also a bishop for each province, and a vicar in each district.

One mint at Rio de Janeiro, and the Bank of Brazil, with sundry others, is also located there; while there are branch banks in various provinces for issue, and private banks for deposit and discount.

Schools and colleges are numerous. A law academy in São Paulo, and also in Bahia. A medical college in Rio de Janeiro.

January 27, 1866.

Senor Street and myself came aboard of the fine steamship Galileo at 10 o’clock A. M., but the vessel was detained a considerable time by a hawser becoming entangled in her screw.

A man was brought from the city by her agent, Mr. W. T. Wright, who dived down under the wheel, and remaining over a minute under the water, succeeded in disentangling the cable.

This vessel is the second English steamer that has recently taken loading from this port, under an arrangement effected by Mr. Wright for the permission of coastwise freight by foreign bottoms, in consideration of the large proportion of Brazilian vessels now chartered by the government 364in connection with the belligerent operations against Paraguay. The troops of Lopez have now been withdrawn from Brazilian territory, and yet hold a defiant attitude upon the soil of Paraguay. It is now the purpose of the Emperor to conquer a peace with these troublesome neighbors, and it is generally thought that hostilities will soon be successfully ended.

The Galileo has taken aboard here nineteen hundred and fifty-two (1952) bales of cotton of the small size, weighing one hundred and twelve (112) pounds, some of which stop at Rio de Janeiro, while another portion is for shipment to Liverpool. She brought from Montevideo a partial cargo, consisting of two hundred sheep, and all the appurtenances of the slaughtering of cattle, hides, horns, and bones, amounting to some five hundred tons.

The sheep and a portion of the cargo are shipped for Rio, while the remainder goes to England.

This vessel has excellent passenger accommodations, and the table is served differently from that of the Brazilian steamers, the waiters supplying promptly all the wants of the guests in the former, while in the latter passengers are expected to look after their own wants during the meals. In the fare of Brazilian steamers, table wine is included, while on the English vessel all wines, beer, or liquors are a separate item of charge, and there is a margin of two (2.00) dollars difference in the rates between the Santa Maria and the Galileo, the passage on the former being eighteen (18.00) dollars, while that of the latter is sixteen (16.00) dollars.

We find on board Captain Markam, the master of the unfortunate Herschel, that was wrecked below a short time since. His vessel first struck upon a rock not indicated in the charts, and was so badly damaged that all preparatory steps were taken for the safety of the passengers and crew in the boats. But he still had a hope of getting her into the port of Marlausdo, and placing her under the direction 365of a pilot she was run upon a rock a second time and was lost, all on board being saved.

An English gentleman named Stickney, who was aboard of the Herschel, is now a passenger with us, and has been examining some of the territory of Brazil, with reference to farming and sheep-raising. He is much pleased with some of the country, but has not yet made any selection. I infer from his own statements, that he has been conducting quite an extensive business in this department in England, and it would be very desirable to see some of those experienced farmers entering into that neat and systematic style of business in this country.

Sunday, January 28, 1866.

The harbor of Rio de Janeiro was entered to-day at 1 o’clock P. M. Being hailed at the fort and boarded by three different officials of the Brazilian government, our vessel proceeded to her anchorage, and I reached the wharf at 3 o’clock P. M. My quarters are taken again at the Exchange Hotel, and having a small bed-room, with an open hall in front that is well ventilated, I am likely to have a quiet time for preparing my report to the Minister of Agriculture pertaining to my tour of observation.

Making a hurried inquiry at the office and other places for letters, none were found, and I proceeded in a boat to a bark that had recently arrived from New York, thinking it might bring some tidings of my family or friends. I was not permitted by the custom-house officers to go aboard, as the vessel had not yet been passed with her cargo; but upon speaking with the Captain from the row-boat, he informed me that any letters brought had gone to the post-office, under the existing regulations, two days ago. I knew, therefore, that nothing had come for me.

Monday, January 29, 1866.

The entire forenoon was occupied with my report for the minister, and it was only suspended when the announcement 366was made that the United States packet Havana had arrived in the harbor. Being informed that no one was permitted to go aboard while she was still in charge of the custom-house officers, I awaited the arrival of passengers and learned that there were no people aboard from the Southern States, so that there was no prospect of hearing through anyone from my friends.

Mr. G. N. Davis kindly accompanied me to the post-office, and personally examined the letters received by the packet, but nothing was found for me. This inscrutable interruption of all communication with my friends in the South leaves no other alternative than to return and confer with them in person respecting my impressions of the territory, climate, productions and government of Brazil.

Senor E. D. Street has arranged for a meeting with the Minister of Agriculture at 11 o’clock A. M. to-morrow.

Tuesday, January 30, 1866.

The abstract of my observations upon the soil and industrial resources of the country, examined during the past four months, was embodied in a report of thirty-two pages of large letter paper, and presented to his Excellency, Conselheiro Paulo Sonsa, Minister of Agriculture, Commerce, &c., to-day. My interview was very brief, as he had an appointment elsewhere, which prevented him from giving audience to numerous persons in attendance, and he appointed day after to-morrow for another meeting. In the mean time he can examine my paper and be prepared to make a response to the propositions therein submitted.

On my return I called at the office of Dom Galvão, where he was found with his secretary, Mr. Mello. These gentlemen renewed their offers of assistance in any way they could serve my objects. But no satisfactory information has been received in regard to the terms upon which negroes may be hired from the province of Minas, and I will direct my efforts to procuring another class of laborers.

367I am informed by Mr. William Scully, the editor of the Anglo-Brazilian Times, that he has had frequent applications from parties in England, Scotland, and Ireland, in regard to securing employment for laborers from those countries; and that so soon as we can give him any assurance of the number that will be required for business operations among our people who propose to settle in Brazil, he can certainly secure them for the service.

Being constantly occupied during the entire morning, I did not have an opportunity to get my breakfast, and, when it was nearly one o’clock, I went into the Café Americano for a lunch that could be most promptly served. Cold ham, shrimps and salad, with bread and butter, stayed my stomach; and yet it proved to be a very costly repast, as a fine silk umbrella was left in the establishment which could not be found upon returning to look for it some two hours afterwards.

In compliance with previous invitation, I dined to-day with Mr. Malone and his family, who are keeping house in the precinct of São Domingos. Mr. J. A. Roussel, from Louisiana, went over with me on the ferry-boat, and I met at the house Dr. D. Dansereau, also from Louisiana, and Mr. P. B. Hockaday, an old gentleman from Missouri, all of whom are here to select locations for their future residence. The latter two are accommodated with boarding by Mr. and Mrs. Malone, and seem to be pleasantly situated. This lady looks rather delicate, and yet she is doing the cooking and housework for the family with her own hands, and says that she is too busy to think of troubles or cares, feeling quite cheerful and contented with her situation. They have two very interesting little daughters, one about nine years old, and the other about seven. Their health has improved since coming here, and they are now quite hearty and sprightly. This family reached Brazil some six months ago, and found many trials at the outset from the want of associations with any of their own people, and the failure 368to find any field of business in which they could be employed to advantage. But now they are in good spirits, and expect ere long to identify themselves with others who are expected to arrive from the Southern States, and form a settlement in some part of the country. In their present sphere of duty, they render essential service to those stopping in Rio.

When I sat down with Southern friends, at the table of a Southern family, and partook of the food prepared by the hands of a Southern lady in a foreign land, the change which has come over our people was fully realized; yet this presented a type of the independence to which every Southern heart aspired, and which can only be enjoyed now by a separation from those who hold us in subjection.

On returning upon the ferry-boat, I was introduced to Mr. Franklin and Colonel Parsons, of Texas, who are here for the purpose of locating in the country. The latter gentleman is just recovering from a slight attack of varioloid, contracted from some Brazilian soldiers on board of the vessel coming from Bahia to Rio. The former has also been indisposed for a few days. But both are again ready for business, and they are now making arrangements to open a mercantile house in this city for furnishing machinery and agricultural implements. They expect to be provided with every thing that is likely to be wanted in opening plantations; yet it will be desirable for planters to bring with them all they may need.

The family of Mr. Gunter, from Alabama, with that of his son-in-law, are located in Botafogo, and await his return from an exploration of the country to determine upon a location. They have been very kindly assisted and looked after by that noble-souled friend of Southerners, Mr. Carlos Nathan. His acts of kindness will relieve the embarrassments of many who have received favors at his hands, and among that number I shall always feel thankful for the 369gentlemanly courtesy and substantial aid which he has extended to me.

With a view to promote in a more enlarged sphere the emigration of our people, a proposition has been submitted to the Brazilian government by Mr. Nathan, in which arrangements will be made by him for the transportation of persons from the Southern States to Brazil, with the privilege to the emigrants of paying the passage-money in three instalments, at the end of the third, fourth, and fifth years, and without interest. He assumes the responsibility of guaranteeing to the government the payment of these passage bills which it is to receive, giving him bonds for the amount, with the allowance of a certain amount for each emigrant that is thus brought from the United States to Brazil.

No action has been taken as yet upon this practical business proposition, which would systematize the transportation across the ocean, and enable many to accomplish the removal to Brazil who otherwise will not be able to avail themselves of transportation.

A highly important meeting of citizens was held to-day at the hall of the Merchants’ Exchange, at which the Minister of Agriculture and other important officials co-operated with many of the most influential men of the city, for the consideration of measures most likely to promote emigration to Brazil.

Two meetings have been held prior to this, and propositions were submitted by Senor Dom Furquim d’Almeida, which have in view the recognition of all the civil and religious privileges which can be desired by our people in coming into this empire. This gentleman has great worth of character, and exercises much control in the affairs of the country, so that his prominent advocacy of these reforms has secured the concurrence of a large number of important persons, and through this influence it is expected that action of the government will be secured.

370An organization has been formed to-day with the object of facilitating all the different steps towards settlement in this country; and with a view to reach more adequately those for whose benefit it is designed, foreigners are to be associated with Brazilians in a committee for carrying out the plans of this society.

Few matters are initiated here by a public assemblage of the people, such as that now witnessed in regard to emigration, and it indicates a widespread and abiding conviction of the importance that is attached to the settlement of the Southern planters in the territory of Brazil.

The official authorities have manifested great readiness to receive favorably all of our people who have sought any position in connection with the government; and they have afforded all the facilities practicable for aiding those who desired to examine the resources of the country, while they hold out the encouragement of prospective assistance to such as may need aid in emigrating to this empire with their families.

The people everywhere exhibit likewise the most cordial disposition to favor this movement.

Wednesday, January 31, 1866.

A brief summary of the report submitted to the Minister of Agriculture will give a general view of the field of observation.

For the purposes of description, the following division of soil is recognized: Volcanic earth, (terra rocha,) red land, (terra vermilha,) dark land, (terra preta,) and light land, (terra branca.)

A further distinction results from the predominance of clay, sand, shell, and decomposed vegetable matter. These are combined in various proportions with other elements, in different specimens of soil examined.

The territory is divided into original forest, (matto virgem,) secondary forest, (capoeira,) and open plain, (campo.)

371The soil of the forest is superior to that of the plain, and yet has many grades.

Fruits and medicinal plants found to a large extent in some of the open plains.

None of the native trees of the United States are found growing in the forests examined.

The province of São Paulo may be divided into four different sections, as follows:

1st. Coast land, including the land lying between the sea and the neighboring serra adjacent to Santos, Conceicão, Ignape and Cananea.

In this the soil has rotten-shell combined with sand to a large extent. Rice is the chief product of this region.

2d. Table land, including the territory lying south of the Serra Nigro, and lying adjacent to Campinas, Lemeira, Rio Clara, Araraquara, Brotas, Jahu, and Botacatu.

The best purple soil (terra rocha) is here in close proximity to the poorest light sandy plains, and, while the latter are unproductive, the former are considered the most favorable for coffee and all the standard staples of the country.

3d. Mixed land, including the territory lying between the former and the Serra da Cubitão, and lying adjacent to Jundiahi, São Paulo, Itu, Porto Feliz, Sorocaba, Itapetininga, and Paranapanema.

Extensive grass plains are intermixed with forests of light land, and occasionally dark soil.

The former very suitable for grazing stock, and the latter are giving very favorable results in the culture of cotton and corn.

4th. River land, including the territory lying upon the upper waters of the Ribeira de Ignape, and its tributaries from each side, and being adjacent to Inquia, Iporanga and Xiririca.

Forest land prevails here exclusively, having for the most part a dark soil with a yellow clay base. Corn, rice and 372sugar-cane have been the principal products, yet this region is well adapted to the growth of tobacco, cotton and coffee.

In all of these sections, the different tropical fruits, oranges, bananas, pine-apples, &c., grow to great advantage.

The hoe is alone used in the culture of the land, and only three plows were seen in the entire province. The introduction of the plow is likely to improve the agricultural operations, and may serve to eradicate that great pest of the planter, the ant. It is especially needed in the preparation of the soil for cotton, and the increasing importance of that crop is apparent.

Pack-mules are the reliance for transportation of product to market, from section second and third, for the present. But a railroad line is expected to be in operation soon, which will be available for a portion of each of these sections. It runs from Santos to Jundiahi, eighty-five miles.

Communication with a market, by water, is convenient for sections first and fourth. The former affords no inducement for any large settlement, while the latter presents a wide extent of territory, lying between the Ribeira de Ignape and Cananea, and extending towards Parana. If it should meet the views of our people to concentrate upon this territory, a large wagon-road is desirable to connect Xiririca and the port of Cananea, so as to afford them access to either of these ports.

The route indicated is pronounced by an engineer to be very favorable for the location of a good road, and if it is authorized, it will constitute an important item in the advantages of this section, for the settlement of emigrants from the southern portion of the United States of America.

Thursday, February 1, 1866.

In an interview with his Excellency Conselheiro Paulo Sonsa, Minister of Agriculture, &c., I have received his assurance that a wagon-road should be opened from the port of Cananea to Xiririca; and that the requisite order would 373be issued forthwith for setting apart the funds for this work. He has likewise given me a promise that an amount of public land, sufficient for the accommodation of my friends, would be reserved in a specified locality, until I should communicate to him some definite intimation as to their decision. I am farther informed that authority will be given me to hire a vessel at the expense of the Brazilian government, for the use of the needy, provided two other vessels are loaded by emigrants on their own account; and that the vessels would be permitted to land their passengers and cargoes free of duty, at Cananea or Ignape, if this is desired.

With this understanding, I feel that my mission in Brazil has terminated satisfactorily, and I am now ready to submit the result for the consideration of those who await this report.

The physical aspects of Brazil present great encouragement to those desiring to engage in agricultural operations.

The great variety and superior quality of the products present advantages not to be realized in the United States, and the facility of cultivation, with the prospect of improvement under the more thorough treatment of the soil to which our people are accustomed, renders this branch of business particularly attractive.

The manufacturing resources afforded by the water-power which is in almost every section of the country, afford the opportunity for working up much of the material grown upon the soil, and enterprise may speedily put to work spindles and looms even at points remote from the great lines of transportation. To our Southern people the empire of Brazil embodies the character and sentiment among the better class of citizens, very much in keeping with our standard of taste and politeness. It has grown out of the consciousness that worth makes the man, and doubtless connected with the same relative status of races that was formerly a line of distinction between the black 374and white population with us. Though slavery may be destined to cease in Brazil at some future day, by gradual emancipation, yet the elements of society which have resulted from the mastery of the white man will never be erased entirely from the people. There is a dignity and a hospitality among these people that correspond in many respects to the lofty and generous bearing which characterized the Southern gentleman in former times. We find people in Brazil capable of appreciating the Southern character, and ready to extend a cordial greeting to all who come.

I have sought and found them a home.

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