Page:Mexico in 1827 Vol 2.djvu/361

Rh beyond these, again, in a deep ravine, is the quicksilver mine of San Ŏnōfrĕ, with a vein about nine feet wide, composed of Cinabar, and other mercurial oxydes. The ores differ from those of Almădēn and Huāncăvēlĭcă, inasmuch as they contain much native mercury, which is seldom found in sufficient quantities to be of much value. It exudes, however, in large drops from the ores which I possess, and the mine has been worked for some time by the present proprietor, with profit.

On the 20th of July we reached the town of Ăctōpăn, about ten leagues from Itzmiquilpan. The first part of the road is stony and barren, but after passing the village of Yōlŏ, (five leagues from Ītzmĭquīlpăn,) the valley of Ăctōpăn commences, and on each side of it there are some fine Haciendas, following in their position the line of the mountains, from which they are supplied with water. The country is inhabited by Ŏtŏmī Indians; and in the vicinity of Ăctōpăn is covered with rich crops of maize and barley.

From Ăctōpăn to Chīcŏ the road is wild and bad, but particularly the last six leagues, two of which lead, by an almost precipitous path, down the side of a very bold mountain, to a little eminence at the foot of it, upon which the town of Chico stands.

The whole distance does not exceed twelve leagues.

The great German Mine of Ărēvălŏ stands upon another little hill, nearly opposite the town.