Page:The Present State of Peru.djvu/253

Rh foliage of the trees which surround it; their agreeable shade; the proximity of the river; the view of every part of the beautiful valley of Lurigancho; the near perspeftive of the city; and the landscape formed by the cultivated grounds on the opposite bank; not only gratify the sight, but likewise inpire a soft enthusiasm, and elevate the spirit to the contemplation of the Supreme Creator of Nature.

In this retired and enchanting spot the Lovers of the Country formed the project of subjecting to a slight criticism the diversions of Lima, with a hope that their productions will be favourably received by their fellow-citizens, who will pardon them, if, peradventure, they should be too free, or should be deficient in the delicacy required.

To illustrate this subject, and at the same time to avoid giving offence, the authors of the Peruvian Mercury have had recourse to an ingenious allegory, which they entitle "An Historical Apologue on the Corruption of the Roman Colonies in Africa," and the application of which will be readily understood. It is introduced in the following manner. The historical department, the first in the order of our publication, demands from us a decided preference. It has therefore been our wish to possess all the valuable materials contained in the archives, so as to be enabled to enrich and adorn Rh