Page:Mexico in 1827 Vol 2.djvu/343

Rh Mexican proprietors, many of whom are entrusted with the superintendence of the works in their own mines, have become most useful assistants; and as the authority of the Church is employed wherever a change of machinery is contemplated, a solemn blessing being pronounced by the Cura, (a man of great talent and influence) upon the new machine, before it begins to work, each innovation is looked forward to by the natives as a fête, at which those who have been employed in the construction of the new works, receive a public reward.

Some of these details may be thought trifling; but as long as human nature remains constituted as it now is, more may be effected by attention to such trifles, than by the most beneficial projects when introduced without it. The conciliatory system adopted by Monsieur de Rivafinoli has given him an almost absolute authority in his district, and this, as long as the prospects of a Company are liable to be affected, (as they always must be) by the power which its agents possess of carrying into execution their projects, may always be regarded as an essential step towards success.

Doubts have been expressed with regard to the goodness of the mines of Tlalpujahua, and these, as there are no records of former produce, it is impossible for me to remove. It is difficult however to