Page:The Present State of Peru.djvu/500

442 the Plains of the Sacrament, but likewise over all those which extend, through a territory without limits, to the other side of Paro.

And who can calculate the advantages which will result to the state, if, with religion, the commerce and navigation of these rivers should be introduced? The discovery of America caused a general revolution in the political system of societies, in the arts, and even in the sciences. The civilization of Dorado, of Enim, and of Paititi, may bestow on them a new aspect, and augment the colours which embellish the delineation of South America. San Joachim de Omaguas, situated at the confluence of the Ucayali and Maranon, will then represent the ancient Tyre, at whose ports arrived the ships and productions of all the world. By the river of the Amazons will enter those of North America, those of Europe, and whatever Africa and Asia furnish to the latter. By the Pastasa and Maranon, Quito will send her cloths and statues. By the Huallaga and the Mayro, Lima will transmit the delicious oil distilled by the fruitful olives which adorn the coasts bathed by the Pacific Ocean. By the Apurimac will be conveyed the paintings and sugars of Cusco, and the gold of Carabaya. By the Beni will be navigated the linens of Moxos, and all the riches of Paititi. Rendered opulent by her marts, San Joachim de Omaguas, whilom regarded as the capital of the empire of Dorado, will cease to belie the idea of her magnificence which was then entertained.

The tranquil city of Huanuco, situated in the centre of the haven at the confluence of the Huallaga and Mayro, may enjoy the same advantages; and then all the riches which may be there collected, may be conveyed with safety to Callao, to be forwarded to their august proprietor. The revolution which this new commerce will induce in the system of power, and in navigation, will be followed by an equal revolution in the sciences. The philosopher will have to contemplate the canals opened by the hands of Nature, in the midst of the formidable mountains of the Cordillera, to afford a passage to the waters. The naturalist will be engaged in examining the great variety of unknown animals and plants. The geographer will no longer place the capital of the empire of the Yncas in the centre of the lofty regions of South America, but on the ports of the sea by which it is bathed