Page:Narrative of a Voyage around the World - 1843.djvu/205

1838.] to ascertain to some degree of certainty whether any of the solid granite rocks had altered their height above the level. The only satisfactory reply that I could obtain was, That from time immemorial the rock we made fast to maintained its present position, and no change of outer soundings had been observed. High water flows to a hole in that rock, and up to a crown well marked.

The rainy season is also another great drawback, and is felt here severely. It commences about the middle or end of July, and continues until the end of October. Owing to the immediate vicinity of a very lofty chain overlooking the town, (one of 2,790 feet) the fall is heavy, and almost incessant. It has been asserted that in 1837 the rain gauge frequently indicated twenty-eight inches in twenty-four hours. During this period the inhabitants are compelled to use every precaution to keep their houses dry, particularly under foot: a neglect of this is supposed to produce fever. The heat during this period is excessively oppressive, especially in May, when the temperature seldom falls below 98. Water then becomes scarce, and towards the end of the dry season the ponds run dry, and wells are their only resource.

Formerly Acapulco was considered as the main outlet from Mexico on this side; but San Blas is now preferred. The distance from hence is one hundred and four Spanish leagues, and the journey up is generally performed in eight days. The exports consist chiefly