Page:A Topographical Description of the State of Ohio, Indiana Territory, and Louisiana.djvu/96

88 Cotton is the staple commodity, and is raised in great perfection; it is planted the last of February, or beginning of March. Those who have large plantations derive great profits, and are able, in a short time, to accumulate handsome fortunes. This is the utmost northern limits of the growth of the sugar cane. Some sugar has been made, but this kind of culture does not succeed. Excellent Indian corn is produced with little labour, and may be planted from the first of March to July. Good rye has grown in some ground, but wheat does not succeed. Indigo, hemp, flax, and rice, are cultivated to advantage. Apples and cherries appear not to be adapted to the climate, but plumbs, peaches, figs, and olives, yield their fruit in plenty. Sweet and sour oranges will grow here, but thrive much better further down the river.

About fifty miles below Natchez are Loftus' Heights. Fort Adams is on the side of these heights, about one third of the way up, and on the summit is a strong block house, which overlooks the fort and surrounding country. A Captain's command is stationed at the fort; and four miles east, at Washington Springs, is a handsome cantonment, with quarters for three hundred men. On the land in this vicinity are considerable settlements.

Four miles below Fort Adams, is the line of demarkation, agreed upon between the United States and the Spanish government. Prior to the