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Rh than it was before, like a Hot-bed. Whatever the Reason may be why Providence determines these Creatures to this Season of laying their Eggs, rather than the Dry, in Fact it is so, as I have constantly observ'd; and that not only with the Sea-Turtle, but with all other sorts of Amphibious Animals that lay Eggs; as Crocodils, Alligator's, Guano's, &c. The Inhabitants of this Island, even their Governour and Padre's, are all Negro's, Woolpated like their African-Neighbours; from whom 'tis like they are descended; tho' being Subjects to the Portuguese they have their Religion and Language. They are stout, lusty, well-limb'd People, both Men and Women, fat and fleshy; and they and their Children as round and plump as little Porposes; tho' the Island appears so barren to a Stranger as scarce to have Food for its Inhabitants. I inquired how many People there might be on the Isle; And was told by one of the Padre's, that here were 230 Souls in all. The Negro-Governor has his Patent from the Portuguese Governor of St. Jago. He is a very civil and sensible poor Man; and they are generally a good sort of People. He expects a small Present from every Commander that lades Salt here; and is glad to be invited aboard their Ships. He spends most of his time with the English in the