Page:Guatimala or the United Provinces of Central America in 1827-8.pdf/219

Rh Tobacco is bought from the grower by the nation, at one real per pound, and on its account is re-sold for interior consumption, at six reals, and for exportation at two reals, delivered at the ports.

The following table shows the produce of sales, the expenses incurred, and the clear profit to the nation for five years.

Sugar is produced chiefly about Sonzonate and St. Ana. The same papers tell us, “that there have been years when more than three or four thousand quintals, or three or four hundred thousand pounds, have been exported by the port of the South Sea; but in others, nothing.”

All along the western coast, from the bay of Jiquilisco to the port of Acajutla, are to be found almost every species of the Balsam Tree, so that the coast takes its name from the quantities which grow on its borders. As much can be collected as is wished, but this branch of trade is now greatly neglected.