The mines of the government of Gojas were not discovered till 1726, and are situated in the districts of San-Felix, Meia-Ponta, O-Fanardo, Mocambo and Natividade.
IX. MATOGROSO, or MATTO-GROSSO,
Is the most western part of the Portugueze possessions, and is bounded by the Chiquites and the Moxos. These people are submitted to the Spanish yoke, through the indefatigable labours of the Jesuits acting as missionaries in that part of the world.
Population.
2,035 Whites;—7,351 Slaves;—4,335 Indians.
Principal Town.
The capital of Matogroso, called Villa-Bella, is merely a large village.
Commerce.
In 1735, mines were discovered in the government of Matogroso, in St. Vincent’s Chapada, St. Anne’s Cuiada, and in Araes.
Observations.