Page:Mexico in 1827 Vol 1.djvu/49

Rh appear without it. In the mining districts, a similar change has occurred; and as the resources of the country develope themselves, there is little doubt that it will gradually spread into the most remote provinces.

Mexico cannot, during the present century, be a manufacturing country, and, probably, will not attempt it. Her mines, and her agriculture, will enable her, with only common industry, to enjoy all the advantages of Transatlantic arts, and to bring to her own door the luxuries of the highest civilization. With the necessaries of life she is abundantly provided within herself, as will be seen by the following sections, which will contain a general account of her population, and productions.

A great maritime power she likewise cannot be, for her ports, on the Atlantic side, are barely sufficient for the purposes of commerce, and were, certainly, never intended by nature for naval depôts. Most of them are insecure, and some, mere roadsteads. The entrance to her principal rivers is obstructed by sand bars; and though art may, in some measure, correct these deficiencies, yet it cannot give what nature has denied, a harbour of sufficient magnitude to become a fit station for any considerable maritime force. Fortunately, this is not in any way essential to the prosperity of the country, as the vicinity of the United States, and the multitude of European vessels which seek the