Upon reaching the town of Itu the urgent thirst of some of the party was satisfied with beer, after which we repaired to the elegant and extensive establishment of the Baron of Perecicaba. I was sorry that his son, Antonio Paez de Barros, had left home, as my acquaintance with him would have enhanced the pleasure of the visit.
The old gentleman, however, received us with the greatest cordiality, and tendered us any thing he could do or furnish for our comfort. Leaving Mr. Auburtin to talk with the baron, the rest of us strolled out to the extensive fruitery, which is nearly a mile in length, and filled with a great variety of trees and vines.
The best quality of pine apple, called Abacashi, is growing here abundantly. Oranges, bananas, jaboticabas, pomegranates, figs, peaches and apples all grow here advantageously. There was a specimen of dwarf apple, spread over the ground like a small shrub, in the spaces between the other trees, and having a small, pleasant-tasted fruit. Upon inquiry I learned that this is a peculiar variety, and not the result of any special mode of culture.
Grapes of various kinds were growing vigorously in different parts of the grounds upon frames put up for the support of the vines. We enjoyed a delicious treat of these fine grapes.
The tea-plant was growing over a large area, and looks flourishing, affording a good article for table use. This shrub presents much the aspect of the boxwood tree, and from two to four of the tender leaves from each branch are picked off at each gathering of the crop.
Coffee likewise has a place in this collection of trees, but the soil has not that fertility which is requisite for a good yield, and manure is employed to give vigor to its growth.
The climate and soil of this region is regarded as particularly adapted to the yield of fruits.
Supper was announced at 9½ o’clock, and was of the most substantial order, with beer and wine.
Mr. Auburtin brought out his own black tea by permission.
Thursday, December 21, 1865.