In the Clerk’s Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
INTRODUCTION.
The present publication is the result of observations made during an extended tour in the central portion of Brazil.
The most ample facilities for exploring the territory were afforded by the authorities of the empire, and more especially by that high-toned gentleman and liberal-minded statesman, Conselheiro Dom Antonio Francisco de Paula e Sousa, to whose personal and official support is due whatever of value may attach to this collection of facts.
This daily record was made for the information of a number of personal friends, but the conviction that many other persons are also interested in a region of such vast resources, induces the author to submit it to the public, as a faithful description of the soil, productive climate, people and government, of the country.
All the requisites of a desirable home have been found in Brazil; and a consideration of the data here presented may enable those concerned to determine upon the propriety of transferring their residence to that favored land.
HUNTING A HOME IN BRAZIL.
Having made a pleasant voyage from New York, it was announced early on the morning of Tuesday, September 12th, 1865, that our vessel had passed Cape Frio, and that we were approaching the harbor of Rio de Janeiro. The rugged shore upon our right hand presented rather a dreary aspect, relieved now and then by a few scrubby trees, or the green foliage of vines springing from the crevices of the rocks. This mountainous rock-bound coast is very irregular in its outline; and the ocean, dashing against its base, throws the white foam of the waves high upon its sloping edge, then to break into spray, and fall back into roaring waters.
The guardians of the entrance consist of two conical islands of solid rock, known as Pai (father) and Mai, (mother.) Farther south there is another small island of rock, upon which stands a light-house to guide vessels approaching at night.
The indications for the mariner are so distinct, and the water so deep and free from obstructions at all points, that pilots are not required.