Page:Description of the four parts of the world (1).pdf/9

9 their dealings, and much ingenuity in mechanical inventions.

Of POLAND.

The government of this country is an elective monarchy, and on that account is often harassed with civil wars and divisions. The air cold, but the soil fruitful. Its commodities are wax, pitch, soap, rosin, flax, butter, cheese, corn, furs &c. The days much the same as in England. The established religion is Popery, but all others are tolerated.

Of SPAIN and PORTUGAL.

The climates are very hot, particularly Spain, and the people lazy, proud, formal, and much bigotted to their religion; and very jealous of their wives, who are given to intrigues. The commodities are wine, sugar, rice, silk, flax, raisins, almonds, oranges, &c. The longest day fifteen hours three quarters, the shortest nine and a quarter.

Of ITALY.

This is the most entertaining country in the world for travellers, as it contains the remains of the bravest people that ever lived, viz. the Romans. The air is pure, temperate, and healthful; the soil