Page:Narrative of a Voyage around the World - 1843.djvu/200

140 the line of what I have designated the "west gap" or neck of the peninsula, open of the south point of the town bay, both land and sea breezes will be felt in their full strength, and free from causes which would heat them before entering the port; the neck being but a few feet above the sea-level.

Water of good quality was found at several points between the fort and Obispo rock; but the two best streams are between the fort and San Lorenzo.

The market, owing to the decay of the respectable portion of its inhabitants, is but indifferently supplied, but fowls, fruit, and vegetables, are readily obtained. The very great mistake committed in 1827, by the expulsion of the old Spaniards, has ruined every port on this side of Mexico, and the vexatious system of carrying into effect the Custom House regulations will utterly ruin its commerce, if this has not been already achieved.

Only two European residents remain, (Germans,) and a few months will in all probability induce them to select some other port under the same laws, but more justly and favourably administered. During our visit, a French brig from Lima actually entered the port, and, much to the chagrin of the officials, who were contemplating their " pickings," without a moment's delay tacked and put to sea,—her consignees having ordered her to San Blas, where proceedings are less vexatious. She Mas consigned to merchants in Mexico, and as the instructions came from Mexico, in anticipation of her arrival, they