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9 Before the rush of the California emigration - the boatmen were eminently trustworthy. Hundred of pounds of silver has been brought down by them without the least guard. It is down the river that the metal of the Chilian and Tenivian mined finds its way to the Eastern Continent. The British Steamers from Valpraiso bring it to Panama - while the British West India Steamers receive it at Chagres and convey it from thence. We found progrission in our bungie slow in comparison with the swift and smooth glide of the Onis. It was not unpleasant however our only annoyance being the roll side ways of our craft. We hoisted our umbrellas - for the sun was hot, and kept our eyes intent on the scenery opening constantly upon our view. Let all travellers in tropical climates provide themselves with umbrellas - and never go aboard without them. Whether for protection against the burning sun or the heavy showers, which the rainy season pour down - they are invaluable to the traveller. No sooner had our boatmen started than they divested themselves of all clothing - tying their breaches loosily around their waists. This I found was out of decency before our women - as most of them go entirely naked. We found the banks of the river presenting a luxuriance of beauty. Their flatness at the commencement - had now given way to undulating variety - and covered with trees many of them new and strange. There was one variety particularly that was abundent - tall and its branches thickly studded with scarlet flowers - in bunches like the lilac - others bore purple blooms. How the cocounut tree attracted my eyes. The first I ever saw - though its fruit has always been favorite with me. The Plantain with broad fern like leaf - its top drooping over like a willow - oaks with their rough and wide spread arms. I tried to learn the names of the trees and shrubs from our Neptunes - but could not understand their Spanish. In the afternoon we stopped at a hous or ranch as the natives call it. The women were very kind. They prepared us coffee - and milked their cow. While our ladies were resting I waled on the hill. A som sop tree was nodding - with is cumbersome fruit near the ranch - and I was impressed to see