Chapter M (11)

Before _Coquibocoa_ are seen the four low Islands _Monjes_, with white sandy Creeks, and full of Trees: out of the middlemost rises a high Mountain.

On the Main Continent also the Mountains _De Azieyto_ appear with scraggy tops beyond the Point: And the Bay _Honda_ affords a safe Road.

The Cape _De la Vela_ hath on one side the Inlet _Portete_, and on the other, the Villages _Rancheria_ and _Nostra Sennora de los Remedios_; between both which runs the Stream _La Hacha_.

The _German_ Commander, _Nicholas Federman_, intended to have built a City on _Cape Vela_, Anno 1535. but finding the Ground too low and unfruitful, the Pearls hereabouts very small, and the Natives living onely on Fish and wild Herbs, he chang’d his Resolution.

SECT. IV.
The Islands Margareta, Cubagua, and Coche.

Notwithstanding we have already spoken something of the Islands _Margareta_, and _Cubagua_, in regard they are by some reckon’d amongst the Isles of _Northern America_; yet because they are by many accounted to make up a part of the Division of _New Andalusia_, we shall add in this place what we have found most worthy of Re-mention, though much to the same purpose as before.

The Island _Margareta_, discover’d by _Christopher Columbus_, Anno 1498. contains thirty two Leagues in circumference, hath many Woods and Pastures, yet little fresh Water. To the Eastward of it lie the Cliffs _Testigos_, where it is very mountainous, as also on the East. Round about the same are delicious Fish, without which the Natives could not live, because the brackish Soil produces but little Provision.

[Sidenote: The Pearl-Fishing of _Margareta_.]

The chiefest thing for which this Island _Margareta_ is famous, is the Pearl-Fishing, for which in times past a great Trade was driven, though of late it is come to little or nothing. The _Spaniards_, with inhumane cruelty, taught the _Negro_’s to Dive for the Pearls, for those that were not nimble or dextrous enough, they beat unmercifully, dropt scalding Wax or scalding Oyl upon them, or stigmatiz’d them with hot Irons. The Pearl-Banks were cover’d with five, six, seven, or eight Fathom Water; from whence the _Negro_’s pull’d the Oysters with such force, that the Blood gush’d out of their Mouths and Noses when they came above Water to breath; after which, to refresh them, they receiv’d a Glass of Wine and a Pipe of Tobacco. The _Spanish Kiay_ receiv’d a fifth part of the best Pearls that were taken here; but whether the Oysters have forsaken this Place, or their growth hinder’d by often Fishing for them, we know not, but however it is, few Pearls are found here of late years, which makes _Margareta_ to be more and more deserted.

[Sidenote: The Nature of the Island of _Cubagua_.]

Between the Main Continent of _Paria_ lie the Islands _Cubagua_ and _Coche_; the first whereof hath an unfruitful and sultry Soil, without either Trees, Birds, and four-footed Beasts, except _Pock_-Wood, Sea-Fowls, or Parrots; and _Castilian_ Hogs being carry’d thither, change their Nature strangely; for in a short time their Claws grow long and crooked.

[Sidenote: The City _Nova Cadiz_ built there, but at length totally
deserted.]

The King of _Spain_ us’d formerly to receive fifteen thousand _Ducats_ yearly for his fifth part of the Pearls that were taken; which Gain invited many thither, who built the Town _Nova Cadiz_ on _Cubagua_ in the Year 1521. but when the _Arayans_ demolish’d the Monks Cloyster on _Paria_, the _Spaniards_, being three hundred in number, fled from _Nova Cadiz_ to _Hispaniola_, where the High Court, displeas’d at their cowardly deserting the Place, gave them but cool Entertainment, and sent five Ships under the Command of _Jacomo de Castellan_ to _Cubagua_, to build new Store-houses in _Nova Cadiz_, which was afterwards re-inhabited; but when the Pearl-Fishing ceased, the Island and Town was at once deserted.

Opposite to _Margareta_ lies the Promontory _Araya_, behind which lies a salt Lake, in which is found abundance of Salt, not onely above, but under the Water; with which the _English_, _Spanish_, and _Dutch_ Ships are fraighted.

[Sidenote: _Du Verne_’s Description of the Salt-pans on _Araya_.]

_Isaac du Verne_ describes the Salt-pans on _Araya_ thus: “Round about the same (saith he) the Ground is craggy, barren, and of a brackish taste, and destitute of fresh Water, which is therefore fetch’d three Leagues farther out of a Brook, flowing from the Mountain _Bordones_ into the Bay of _Comena_; likewise all manner of Provisions are brought from other Parts. Westward from the Point _Araya_ there is a convenient Harbor where the Ships take in their Salt. Three hundred Paces from the Shore lies a great Salt-pan, where the Salt being first beat in pieces, is carry’d in Wheel-barrows to the Ships. The little Salt-pan produces less Salt, and lies also out of the way, which makes few Ships take in their Lading from thence.”

The Countrey is every where overgrown with Brambles and Bushes, in which breed Tygers and very poysonous Serpents. There are likewise abundance of Stags, Bucks, Hares, and Coneys, besides other strange Beasts.

[Sidenote: The _Netherlanders_ beaten out of their Salt-Trade here by
the _Spaniards_.]

Till _Anno 1605._ the _Netherlanders_ came hither unmolested for Salt, when eight _Spanish_ Gallions falling unawares upon them, strangely misus’d their Seamen; but afterwards the _United Netherlands_ having made an Agreement with _Spain_ for a certain time, renew’d their Trade to _Araya_, till the King of _Spain_, having for the better security of the Place, built the Fort _St. Jago_, which Commanded the great Salt-pan, forbad the _Netherlanders_ from lading any more Salt; who thereupon Storm’d the Fort, though to their cost, for several of them were kill’d, and the rest return’d home empty.

SECT. V.
Of the Islands of Southern America.

The chiefest islands of note in the Southern part of _America_, that is to say, those that lie remote from the Continent in _Mare del Zur_, are _Los Ladrones_, and the Islands _Fernandinas_; for the rest being, as we may call them, _Mediterranean Islands_, fall naturally under the Description of the Continent.

[Sidenote: The Isles _Los Ladrones_.]

1. _Los Ladrones_, in English, _The Islands of Thieves_, lie as it were in the mid-way betwixt the Main Land of _America_ and the _Philippine_ Islands, but some hundreds of Leagues distant from either, in the fourth Degree of Northern Latitude; so nam’d by _Ferdinand Magellan_, from the pilfering disposition he observ’d in the Natives, when he Sail’d that way for the _Moluccæ_ Islands. They were a nimble and active sort of People, yet light-finger’d, tall of stature, and going for the most part naked, excellent Swimmers and Divers, and have not much more to be said in their commendation.

[Sidenote: The Isles _Fernandinæ_.]

2. The _Fernandinæ_ are onely two Islands of no great bigness, lying over against the Coast of _Chile_, in the three and thirtieth Degree of Southern Latitude, and about a hundred Leagues, or three hundred _English_ Miles from the Continent, yet well stor’d with some lesser sorts of Cattel, as Goats, _&c._ good plenty likewise of Venison in the Woods, and Fish upon the Coasts; for which reason, though lying at some distance, yet are they not a little frequented by the _Spaniards_ of _Peru_, who find many good Harbors and Roads for Shipping belonging to, and about these Islands.

An Appendix,

CONTAINING

Partly a farther prosecution of the Descriptions of some Provinces
already treated of in the foregoing Book, partly an Account of some
other Discoveries than what have hitherto been deliver’d in any
Description of the _NEW WORLD_.

CHAP. I.
Rio de la Plata.

The River _De la Plata_, by the Natives call’d _Paranaguazu_, is next to the River of the _Amazones_, the greatest in the World, and falls into the Northern Ocean between the Capes _Antonio_ and _Maria_, lying thirty Leagues one from another: It receives from East and West divers Rivers as far as the Lake _Xarays_, lying three hundred Leagues up in the Countrey from the Mouth of _La Plata_. Also into the fore-mention’d Lake fall several Streams, which spring out of the _Peruvian_ Mountains _Andes_.

The first that Sail’d into this great River, _Anno 1515._ to an Island lying in the middle of it, was _John Dias de Solis_, who rashly going ashore, was kill’d and eaten, together with several _Portugueses_.

[Sidenote: _Sebastian Gabottus_ his Expedition.]

Eleven years after this Accident, _Sebastian Gabottus_ set Sail from _Spain_ to go to the Spicy Islands through the Straights of _Magellan_, but was forc’d, for want of Provisions, and the unwillingness of his Seamen, to put into the River _La Plata_; in which being advanc’d thirty Leagues, he Anchor’d near an Island, which he call’d _St. Gabriel_: from whence going seven farther, he discover’d a Stream which fell into _La Plata_. This River he call’d _St. Salvador_, and cast up a Fort at the Mouth of it, where an Inlet afforded a convenient Harbor for Shipping; he found the River _La Plata_ to be generally ten Leagues broad, and full of Isles; and to the Westward of it, the River _Zaracaranna_, inhabited on the South side by a subtil People call’d _Diagnitas_. At the place where _Zaracaranna_ disembogues into _La Plata_ he built a Castle, and calling the same _Castello di Santo Spirito_, went up farther, leaving on the West side the People _Tenbues_, _Mequaretas_, _Mepenes_, and _Aigais_; to the Eastward, the _Quiloacas_ and _Santana_, and struck up out of the River _La Plata_, North-East into the Stream _Parana_, in which he had gone, two hundred Leagues, and pass’d by many Isles, when he went out of the same into the Stream _Paraguay_; where being set upon by the Countrey People, who were busie in Tilling the Ground, he lost so many of his Men, that he was forc’d, without any farther Exploit, to return with the _Portuguese_ Pilot, _Diego Garcia_, who Sailing up the same River, had met with _Gabottus_ in _Paria_; and because both had gotten some Silver, they call’d the River, from that Metal, _De la Plata_. The farther Discovery whereof lay neglected nine years after, when _Peter Mendoza_ Sailing with eleven Ships, carrying eight hundred Men, to the Island _Gabriel_, built the Fort _Buenos Ayres_, on the South side of it, where many People dying of Hunger, little was done.

_Alvares Cabeca_ not long after following _Mendoza_’s footsteps, discover’d and peopled the Province _Rio de la Plata_. The Mouth of the River _La Plata_ _Laurence Bikker_ describes thus:

[Sidenote: _Laurence Bikker_’s Description of _Rio de la Plata_.]

“Beyond the Cape _Santa Maria_ (saith he) lies the flat Island _Castilhos_, having scarce a Tree upon it; but on the North side a Rock, not unlike a decay’d Castle; to the Southward of which appear two other Cliffs; directly before the Mouth lies the stonie Island _De Lobos_, on which nothing is to be found but Sea-Wolves; towards the East a stonie Bank runs a good way into the River, known by the breaking of the Water upon the same.”

The Promontory _Maria_ is low and barren, but within the same the Land rises high before the Isles _Flores_ and _Maldonado_, which last hath a good sandy Shore, Harbor, and fresh Water between the Rocks; but _Flores_ rising with two Hills, produces nothing but Brambles.

The Stream _Solis_ also discharges its Waters in _La Plata_, near the Place where the Mountain _Seredo_ lies.

The left Shore of _La Plata_ begins at the Promontory _Antonio_, and is cut through by the Rivers _Ortis_ and _Los Sanctos_, where the Town _Buenos Ayres_ is built on a smooth Shore.

[Sidenote: _Martin del Barco_’s Description of the same.]

_Martin del Barco_ proceeding in the Description of _La Plata_, saith that it is dangerous by reason of the many Shelves that are in the same. The Isles in the River are as followeth: those that bear the Name of _St. Gabriel_ are five in number; _Garcia_ Isle is full of Trees, and for its fertility was peopled by _Peter de Mendoza_, and afterwards by _Juan Ortiz Carate_: But less fruitful are the Isles _De Lazaro_, where the River _Vrayg_ unites with _La Plata_, being before fill’d with the Waters of _Salvador_, which receives the black Stream _Negro_, which gliding slowly from Morasses, is very full of Fish. Moreover, _La Plata_ hath eleven Arms, each very deep and full of Isles, inhabited by the _Guaranins_.

About a hundred Leagues farther the _Cherandies_ have setled themselves on pleasant Isles, lying not far from the City _St. Fe_, built on the Point which makes the River _Bermeio_, where it falls into _La Plata_.

Farther up lies the Province _Ana_, partly well inhabited for its fertility, and partly overflow’d.

Next appears the Rock _Pennapobre_, and not far from the Town _Guayra_, _La Plata_ falls very high from the Rocks.

[Sidenote: The several People of this Countrey.]

But as concerning the Natives of this Countrey, it is inhabited by divers sorts of People, differing from one another both in Customs and Language. On the South side of the fore-mention’d River, from the Promontory _Antonio_ to _Buenos Ayres_, dwell the _Quirandies_, a stout, but cruel People, who with the Flesh of many a _Spaniard_ oftentimes keep a merry Feast. Farther into the Countrey run the _Juries_ and _Diagnitas_. Along _La Plata_ lie also scatter’d the _Tenbues_, a civil People, who live by Fishing. Near the River _Paraguay_ the _Ameguaes_ observe the same manner of Life; But the _Carioes_ keep Cattel, and Till their Lands. A hundred Leagues farther dwell the _Payaguaes_; and yet farther into the Countrey the _Chames_ and _Carcares_ possess much Gold and Silver, with which _Juan d’ Ayola_ having enrich’d himself here, was destroy’d with all his Men by the _Chames_, Anno 1541.

[Sidenote: _Nunnez Cabeca_ his Journey.]

_Alvarez Nunnez Cabeca_ came from _Spain_ to be Governor here, but was not able, by reason of contrary Winds and Tydes to reach _La Plata_; wherefore Landing at the River _Itabucu_, and spending nine days in cutting a Way through thick Brambles, he came to the Jurisdiction of _Armiriri_, and a days Journey farther to _Cipoyay_; and not long after to _Tocanguazu_, where the _Guaranies_, who are the Natives, have two Harvests every year of _Maiz_ and _Cassavi_, and breed and keep Geese, Hens and Parrots in their Houses: They are Man-eaters, and very revengeful. _Cabeca_ having given this Countrey the Name of _Vera_, he proceeded on his Journey over the Rivers _Ignazu_, _Tibagi_, and _Taquari_, on whose Shore appears the Village _Abangobi_, and somewhat farther _Tocanguzir_. The Countrey hereabouts is very fruitful, and hath many delightful Plains, pleasant Rivers, and Woods; but beyond appear Hills, Mountains, deep Morasses, dangerous Cane-Fields, Receptacles for wild Beasts, and great Wildernesses. _Cabeca_ having pass’d through them all, came into the fruitful Countrey of the _Guaranies_, who are a wild People, and possess many large Fields of _Maiz_ and _Potato_’s, also several Silver Mines. From hence travelling Westwardly over the River _Piqueri_, he spent eighteen days before he came to the Stream _Ignazu_, which falls into the _Parana_, and at last came to the River _Paraguay_; along whose Shore he found a People of a gigantick Stature, call’d _The Agazes_, who regarded no manner of Husbandry, but went out continually a robbing in their _Canoos_. These People, as _Martin del Barco_ relates, were not long after all destroy’d by the _Spaniards_.

Not far from the _Agazes_ dwell the _Guaycurues_, a valiant People; and somewhat farther the _Cacoves_, whose Countrey produces Gold and Silver; and yet farther in the Countrey reside the _Guaxarapos_, who remove yearly to the _Paraguay_ to Fish there when the Water is low; for in the beginning of _January_ the River swells so exceedingly, that the Countrey about it being overflow’d, is cover’d with above six Fathom Water. The _Paraguay_ discharges its Waters into the great Lake _Xarayes_, full of Islands.

Amongst other Rivers that spring out of the Mountains _Andes_, the _Ignazu_, along whose Shore the People _Xacoaes_, _Xaquesses_, and _Chanesses_ dwell, falls also into the foremention’d Lake. Somewhat farther lies a great piece of drown’d Land, beyond which the _Xarayes_ have convenient Habitations, plant _Maiz_, and spin Cotton: Their Countrey borders a great Wilderness, which ends about the Province _Tapuaguazu_, the Inhabitants whereof, call’d _Tarapecocies_, are furnish’d with plenty of all sorts of Provisions. The _Payzunoes_, dwelling on one side of them, are not well known as yet.

Beyond the Town _Assumption_ dwell the _Mayaes_, in the Way to _Peru_, and border at the _Tamacoaes_, both which possess Silver-Mines.

Between _Buenos Ayres_ and _Corduba_ lies the Plain-Countrey _Despoplado_, ninety Leagues long, without Trees or Houses, but is most Pasture-Ground, which feed many thousands of wild Horses. From hence glide the Streams _Luchan_, _Los Arrechivos_, _Arreca_, _Zaracaranna_, and others, into _La Plata_. It is very dangerous for a small Company to travel through this Countrey, because the ranging _Furies_ spare none alive they meet with.

Moreover, the River _Grande_ flows with a wide Mouth into the Sea, and spreads it self within against the Countrey _Patos_. Also the Rivers _Tamandabug_, _Ararungo_, and the Lake _Alagoa_, disembogue into the Ocean.

North-East beyond _Alagoa_ lie the Islands _Catharina_ and _Gale_; and in the Bay _Tojuqua_ appear several Isles.

The Streams _Tajahu_ and _Ytabuca_ spring out of high Mountains, inhabited by the People _Anniriri_ and _Cipopoy_.

Lastly, the Countrey wash’d by the Stream _Ararapira_, produces all sorts of Provisions.

CHAP. II.
Chili.

[Sidenote: The _Cammel-Sheep_.]

There are in this Countrey both tame and wild Sheep; the tame ones are call’d _Cammel-Sheep_, being cover’d with long fine Wool, having Necks four Foot long, their fore Feet cloven into four parts, their hindermost into two, their Mouths very wide, which they open at those that vex them, and make such a stink, that no body is able to abide near them; when tir’d, they fall under their Burdens, and will not rise, though beaten never no much: Their Flesh is tough like that of Horses. The wild Mountain-Sheep are red, and have soft glossy Wool, which makes a Stuff like that of a Chamlet: These Sheep run swifter than a Horse; the _Chileses_ lead them by a Rope put through their Ears.

[Sidenote: The Grain _Teca_.]

This Countrey of _Chili_ not onely produces Wheat, Barley, _Maiz_, and all manner of Fruit, but also the _Teca_, which growing half a Yard high, is not unlike Barley; the Grain thereof being dry’d in the Sun, is thresh’d, and parch’d in hot Sand, then ground on a square flat Stone with a round Rowler. This Meal, which is both exceeding wholsom and very nourishing (for a small Measure thereof sufficeth a Man a whole Week,) serves also both for Meat and Drink: for being infus’d in a greater quantity of Water, it becomes a pleasant Drink, and kneaded with a lesser proportion, it is made into Cakes or Loaves.

[Sidenote: The Fruit _Unni_.]

The Fruit _Unni_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Murtilla_, is like a little red Grape, and hath a tart taste. The Wine press’d out of this Fruit is clear to the Eye, pleasing to the Palate, and good for the Stomach, never causing any Head-ache: It also makes good Vinegar.

But the chiefest Benefit of _Chili_ is the rich Gold-Mines. The Countrey for the most part lies desolate, occasion’d by the continual Wars which the valiant People _Arauco_ maintain’d against the _Spaniards_ after such a manner, that in no place of _America_ they met with such resistance, or sustain’d such Losses. They speak an elegant Language, according to the testimony of _Elias Herkmans_, who having committed to Writing all the most significant Words thereof which were taught him by the _Chileses_, it will not be altogether amiss to set down some of them, which are these following:

A View of the Chilesian Language.

_Tepanto_, A Year. _Tien_, A Moneth, or the Moon. _Toninco_, A Week. _Ante_, The Day, or Sun. _Paun_, The Night. _Tabuyo_, The Evening. _Eppoun_, The Morning. _Rangiante_, Noon. _Eppoe_, The next Day after to Morrow. _Vya_, Yesterday. _Putey_, The Day before Yesterday. _Buchiante_, To Day. _Mintay_, Now. _Weytiva_, At that time. _Wantarulei_, In the Morning betimes. _Biliante_, Always. _Chumel_, When. _Chemchuem_, Also. _Hueno_, The Heavens. _Quereb_, The Air or Wind. _Tomo_, The Clouds. _Wangelen_, The Stars. _Pillan_, Thunder. _Gualio_, Lightning. _Puta que quereb_, A Storm. _Maoni_, Rain. _Piren_, Snow. _Veaquumao_, Dew. _Pillingei_, Ice. _Quetal_, Fire. _Ko_, Water. _Tue_, The Earth. _Mappo_, The Land. _Pele_, Clay. _Cura_, Stone. _Maviel_, Wood. _Aluven_, Timber. _Millia_, Gold. _Lien_, Silver. _Paila_, Brass. _Titi_, Tin. _Pavillue_, Iron. _Quatal-cura_, A Pebble-stone. _Chadi_, Salt. _Lyl_, A Rock. _Milla-mappen_, A Golden Vein. _Aliquen_, A Tree. _Cahu_, Herbs. _Nebo_, Nuts. _Pino_, Grass. _Cayron_, Hay. _Wento_, A Man. _Domo_, A Wife. _Quiduugen_, A Youth. _Yecho_, A Maiden. _Penien_, A Boy. _Domo-penien_, A Girl. _Chou_, A Father. _Nenque_, A Mother. _Cheche_, A Grandfather. _Domo-cheche_, A Grandmother. _Wenco_, Mothers Brother. _Mama_, Mothers Sister. _Pelchuchan_, A Stepfather. _Caulla_, A Stepmother. _Botum_, A Son. _Neaque_, A Daughter. _Penu_, A Brother. _Lamoen_, A Sister. _Guempo_, A Father-in-law. _Vilca_, A Mother-in-law. _Choupa_, A Son-in-law. _Weuro-pencho_, A Kinsman. _Buytha_, An old Man. _Cude_, An old Woman. _Cunewa_, An Hospital Child. _Peneinboe_, A Guardian. _Apo-curaca_, A Governor. _Curaca_, A Lord. _Apo_, A supream Commander. _Nentoque_, A Ruler. _Ulmen_, A Person of Quality. _Pulmen_, A Gentleman. _Machi_, A Chirurgeon. _Cona_, A Soldier. _Retave-caman_, A Smith. _Guito-wok_, A Weaver. _Challo-acaman_, A Fisher-man. _Nilla-caboe_, A Merchant. _Turnitave_, A Dyer. _Chumpiro-caman_, A Cap-maker. _Tultunca-caman_, A Drummer. _Inchetaniweni_, A Servant. _Voerquin_, A Messenger. _Langamcheboe_, A Murderer. _Chiquiboe_, A Thief. _Illuiboe_, A Beggar. _Alvee_, The Devil. _Ruca_, A House. _Ullin_, A Door. _Chaquana_, A pair of Stairs. _Pylca_, A Wall. _Wana-ruca_, The Roof. _Pithe-ruca_, A Hut. _Colcura_, A Cupboard. _Cawyto_, A Bedstead. _Depotuarica_, A Prison. _Weltelve_, A Gibbet. _Pengal_, A Grave. _Lonquen_, The Sea. _Leva_, The River. _Buta-wampo_, A Ship. _Aliwen_, A Mast. _Mou_, Ropes. _Dolio_, A Canoo. _Wampo_, A Boat. _Vela_, Sails. _Wyta_, An Oar. _Tubquen_, Ashes. _Cuju_, A dead Coal. _Ale_, The Flame. _Aypel_, A burning Coal. _Wietum_, Smoak. _Catila_, a Candle. _Wyno_, A Knife. _Witi_, A Spoon. _Guidi_, A Pot. _Lepoboruwe_, A Tooth-picker. _Pavilla-lonco_, An Helmet. _Waiqui_, A Pike. _Pylqui_, A Dart. _Pulque-tuboi_, A Bowe. _Tultunca_, A Trumpet. _Mecane_, An Iron Club. _Cachal_, An Awl. _Wita_, A Spade. _Juisue_, A Sieve. _Chilca_, A Letter. _Charavilla_, A pair of Breeches. _Icha_, A Woman’s Garment. _Domo-ruida_, A Coat. _Couchon_, A Bag. _Pino-chompiro_, A Straw Cap. _Congi_, Food. _Cobque_, Bread. _Nul-cobque_, The Crumb. _Liquangue_, Light. _Dumingei_, Darkness. _Quemeiquen_, Dainties. _Medda_, Pap. _Core_, Broth. _Ilon_, Flesh. _Cuichalon_, Mutton. _Wara-ilon_, Beef. _Chuchi-ilon_, Pork. _Chuchi-chain_, A Gammon of Bacon. _Chaditues-ilon_, Salt. _Caucan_, Roast-meat. _Avaun_, Boyl’d-meat. _Puytscha_, The Guts. _Curam_, An Egg. _Quecuram_, The Yolk of an Egg. _Lycuram_, The White of an Egg. _Iwyn_, Butter. _Ylu_, Milk. _Puuloo_, Drink, _Vino_, Wine. _Chiche_, Beer. _Cutan_, Pain or Sickness. _Aren-cutan_, A Feaver. _Towongen_, The Head. _Cancocultano_, The Head-ache. _Veno-aren_, Scabs. _Albungien_, A Wound. _Molbuen_, Blood. _Touma_, A blind Man. _Cawinto_, A Meal. _Colchou_, The Small-pox. _Wocubu_, A wild Beast. _Pangy_, A Lyon. _Naguel_, A Tyger. _Cuchy_, A Swine. _Michun_, A Calf. _Dewe_, A Mouse. _Waren_, A Rat. _Twe-dewe_, A Mole. _Tewa_, A Dog. _Pulpeo_, A Fox. _Guetaltuange_, A Hare. _Noquen_, A She-bear. _Lame_, A Sea-Dog. _Lemo-cuchi_, A wild Swine. _Chumam_, A Bear. _Puedo_, A Sea-Goat. _Quelen_, A Tail. _Chiliweki_, A Sheep. _Zuneu_, a Bird. _Lyppe_, A Plume. _Mepoiinem_, A Wing. _Dani-inem_, A Nest. _Achawal_, a Hen. _Alchahawal_, a Cock. _Pylken_, A Duck. _Jeca_, A Raven. _Guereo_, A Magpye. _Cogo_, A Cuckow. _Nullyn_, A Bee. _Pulli_, A Flye. _Vulgumusky_, The King of Bees. _Petar_, A Louse. _Perem_, A Flea. _Piro_, A Worm. _Vilo_, A Serpent. _Bylcum_, A Hedghog. _Ponono_, A Toad. _Challua_, A Fish. _Cawel_, A Dolphin. _Iene_, A Whale. _Vouqui_, A Grigg. _Vilochalva_, An Eel. _Chadituel-chalva_, Salt-fish. _Anquen-chalva_, Dry’d-fish. _Quinpilon_, Oysters. _Chapes_, Mussles. _Coinow_, A Crab. _Quichiquinchio_, a Falcon. _Manco_, A Crane. _Choroi_, A Parrot. _Pilo_, Dead. _Hilca_, A one-ey’d Person. _Topilgen_, To squint. _Topil_, Lame. _Poo_, A Bough. _Kempomamel_, Dry Wood. _Bopemamel_, Wither’d Wood. _Nobue_, An Acorn. _Nido-iwas_, A Vineyard. _Nidu_, A Pole. _Vanguen_, Strawberries. _Couchow_, Black-berries. _Litue_, Toad-stools. _Pilun-proque_, Plantain. _Calicai_, Clover-grass. _Curi_, Stinking Nettles. _Pragyn_, Flowers. _Manen_, Seed. _Methen_, Meal. _Chiquelen_, To gather. _Gueli-vanca_, Coral. _Kispi_, Glass. _Cudi_, A Milstone. _Pel_, Mud or Dirt. _Tassaquido_, A Treasure. _Guengu_, A Marriage-Portion. _Deren-culyn_, A Debt. _Culyn_, A Reward. _Willawyn_, Single-money. _Guyn_, One. _Eppo_, Two. _Quila_, Three. _Meli_, Four. _Quechu_, Five. _Cuyn_, Six. _Regli_, Seven. _Pura_, Eight. _Culla_, Nine. _Maripataco_, A hundred. _Marama_, A thousand. _Guiltui_, A Kernel. _Tapel_, Leaves. _Nil_, The Bark. _Pelli_, The Smell. _Oaliel_, The Body. _Lai-calel_, A dead Corps. _Ven_, Flesh. _Molvin_, Blood. _Boro_, A Leg. _Telqui_, The Skin. _Vel_, The Sinews. _Ven-molvin_, A Vein. _Congo_, The Head. _Tol_, The Forehead. _Lenglen_, The Scull. _Lonco_, The Hair. _Teren-lonco_, Grey. _Lolo_, The Brain. _Angen_, The Face. _Taun_, The Jaws. _Ne_, The Eyes. _Tacune_, The Members. _Denen_, The Eye-brows. _Ju_, The Nose. _Peloju_, The Nostrils. _Merum_, Snot. _Pilum_, The Ears. _Oun_, A Mouth. _Adem_, Sweat. _Quewen_, The Tongue. _Melbue_, The Lips. _Boru_, The Teeth. _Ilga_, The Gums. _Bida-bida_, The Roof of the Mouth. _Cain_, Spittle. _Mewe_, The Throat. _Neen_, The Breath. _Quette_, The Chin. _Paion_, The Beard. _Pel_, The Neck. _Lipan_, The Shoulders. _Puilpa_, An Arm. _Cue_, A Hand. _Mancue_, The Right-hand. _Melecoe_, The Left-hand. _Puley-cue_, The Palm of the Hand. _Changel-cue_, The Fingers. _Buta-changel_, The Thumb. _Wili_, The Nails. _Zevo_, The Breast. _Moju_, The Nipples. _Pue_, The Belly. _Weddo_, The Navel. _Cadi_, The Ribs. _Buri_, The Back. _Anca_, The Sides. _Quichio_, The Buttocks. _Penem_, A Man’s Genital Parts. _Metu_, A Womans. _Chan_, The Thighs. _Lucu_, The Knees. _Metunthoy_, The Knee-Bone. _Hemum_, The Calves. _Kamon_, The Feet. _Pinque_, The Heart. _Mocun_, The Lungs. _Que_, The Maw. _Curique_, The Liver. _Vaca_, The Milt. _Quelche_, The Guts. _Villin_, The Bladder. _Momay_, To Stink. _Pelengsley_, A Spider. _Inche_, I. _Tubei_, He. _Eimi_, You. _Inchen_, We. _Tecengen-eimen_, You People. _Liengen_, Those People. _Emma_, So. _Muh_, No. _Pichumei_, Hard by. _Averlugei_, Far. _Taymen_, Against. _Woecun_, Without. _Compay_, Within. _Pulon_, Below. _Wono_, Above. _Buri_, Behind. _Junengen_, Before. _Quelleb_, Near. _Munai_, Enough. _Alengei_, Too much. _Munalai_, Too little. _Chemibla_, Wherefore. _Venibla_, Therefore. _Vei-mai_, Let it be so. _Wei_, These. _Temunei_, Fair. _Woranei_, Ugly. _Newonei_, Strong. _Leptungei_, Swift. _Chouwo_, Lazie. _Alilonconei_, Very wise. _Wentannei_, Valiant. _Queunei_, Proud. _Culenei_, Rich. _Cunewal_, Poor. _Toucou_, Foolish. _Molgei_, Naked. _Ilungei_, Clothed. _Queten_, Narrow. _Anqueu_, Dry. _Prequin_, Bountiful. _Buta_, Great. _Pichi_, Little. _Montingei_, Fat. _Toutau_, Lean. _Pettun_, Colour’d. _Queli_, Red. _Calbu_, Blue. _Carel_, Green. _Choot_, Yellow. _Curi_, Black. _Lye_, White. _Nilla-caju_, To change. _Illawyn_, Giving. _Tuignei_, To be merry. _Umatum_, Sleeping. _Limen_, To wake out of Sleep. _Bemgne_, To Build. _Playn_, To find. _Vangen-lyn_, To lose. _Necul_, To run. _Amon_, To go. _Utalegen_, To stand. _Jucheleyn_, To lie down. _Tecanen_, To dance. _Padenatum_, To fall. _Utalenen_, To rise. _Avinge_, To sit. _Dimgne_, To speak. _Temelenge_, To be silent. _Puronge_, To Sing. _Pylcunge_, To call. _Quipay_, To come. _Ien_, To eat. _Butum_, To drink. _Mepai_, To go to Stool. _Willam_, To Urine. _Cudepain_, To play. _Locatum_, To scold. _Mecowyn_, To carry. _Chuquin_, To steal. _Guallulueno_, To restore. _Pelteney_, To pay. _Lay_, To die. _Rengalgei_, To be buried. _Quedau capay_, Working. _Intunge millo_, To dig for Gold. _Nilla-teubyn_, To sell. _Nilla-vin_, To buy. _Quimli wi tami piel_, I cannot understand you. _Chu pipaimi_, What do you? _Champaila_, Nothing. _Juei pingeimi_, What is your Name? _Juan pingen_, I am call’d _John_. _Cheo ruaimi_, Whither do you go? _Moppo muruam_, I go into the Countrey. _Cheo tui mi_, From whence came you? _Miro comotoun_, I came from home. _Chumel quipai, tuai mi_, When shall you come? _Chumel pratuai mi_, When shall you go? _Ale prungi tamruca_, Is your Habitation far from hence? _Picherungei_, It is hard by. _Aleprungei_, It is farther. _Inchi quiparum camappumu_, I intend to go into another Countrey. _Chemnibla qui parui cammappumu_, Why will you go into another Countrey? _Merelya tiva mappumu_, Here is no Provision. _Aleibelay twachi tipanto, benebliaale geniep ayn_, The year hath been unfruitful, and therefore we want. _Cheo mappungen tamichau_, In what Province dwells your Father? _Alu ei ei_, The Devil hath fetch’d him away. _At eimi ruaju inchio_, Will you keep him company? _Ailan_, No, I will not. _Bien_, I will. _Chuben quecken neieimi tania_, Have you any thing to give us to eat? _Cancan achawal_, Yes, I have roasted Hens. _Mu wy_, How many? _Munalei enchintavia_, There will be enough for us. _Chuben putuayn_, Where shall we Drink? _Aile Mangunmeinis_, I thank you. _Chuben domo trivo_, What Woman is this? _Inchi tan curi_, It is my Wife. _Ni nave_, My Daughter. _Ni domo_, My Concubine. _Alei teminigei vei domo_, It is a handsomWoman. _Qua pangnei_, Come hither. _Amotunge_, Run away. _Umatuayn_, Let us go to Bed. _Utajuca_, Let us rise. _Wira cuchai compay tan mappumu_, The _Spaniards_ are fall’n into this Countrey. _Quipa waicha laimi_, Shall we Fight together? _Waiquenagelan_, I have no Arms. _Ima en pea in Waiqui_, Follow me, and I will get Arms. _Ali teum inche_, I am contented.

The Seamen who went under _Hendrick Brewer_’s Command, _Anno 1643._ from _Brasile_ to _Chili_, brought the fore-mention’d Vocabulary along with them.

_Chili_ is look’d upon as no way inferior to any Countrey in _America_, enjoying a wholsom Air, fruitful Soil, and abundance of Inhabitants, who often furnish _Peru_ with Provisions; which are the speedier convey’d thither, because the South-Winds always blow along the Coast.

The _Peruvian_ Vice-Roy keeps a Deputy to Govern here. It hath two Bishopricks, _viz._ St. _Jago_ and _L’ Imperial_.

[Sidenote: The Nature, Customs, and Manners of the _Chileses_.]

Some of the _Chileses_ are under the _Spaniards_ Jurisdiction, and live in Huts; others being wilder, defend their Freedom with the Sword. They have great Heads and flat Noses: The Men continually pull out the Hair on their Faces and Privities with Shells, which they carry about their Necks for that purpose, having beforehand rubb’d the Hair with warm Ashes; the Hair of their Heads hanging downwards is cut close as far as their Ears, the rest growing long, is ty’d with the Ribbon _Tariwelonco_, to which Persons of Quality fix Silver Plates and _Turkoises_: Some also cover their Heads with the Skins of Weazels, or the like Beasts, putting the Head over their Foreheads, and the Tail down their Neck; which kind of Covering they call _Maniewelonco_: Others wear Caps made after some strange manner or other.

The _Chileses_ are not the tallest, but strong and well set, betwixt a white and sallow colour: Those that are in the _Spaniards_ Service, wear long Hair, by which they are distinguish’d from the shorn _Ucais_, who do the _Spaniards_ all the mischief imaginable. The Women are for the most part low of stature, but of a strong Constitution, they go bare-headed, letting their Hair hang loose over their Shoulders, except when they are indispos’d, and then they tie it up: But those that dwell about _Castro_ wear Locks like our _English_ Ladies. In _Coquimbo_ and _Loquimbo_ they go after the same manner as the _Peruvian_ Women: All of them have thick black Hair.

Their Apparel, though mean, is neat: The Men wear wide Breeches girt about their Wastes, and a piece of woollen Cloth, three Yards long and two broad, which having a Hole in the middle, they put over their Heads, and so let it hang on their Shoulders, leaving their Arms and Legs bare; but on Festival Days they wear curious embroider’d Stockings. The Women likewise cover themselves with the same piece of Cloth, but after another manner, tying it first about their Middle, then let it down to the Ground, pinn’d before with Silver or Golden Pins; their Heads, Breasts and Legs are uncover’d; the Cloth it self is strip’d with red, white, blue, and yellow, and fring’d at the edges. For an Example of their quick and easie Labor, _Hendrick Brewer_ relates, That a Woman being Deliver’d in his Ship, within an hour after walk’d up and down the Deck, and gave the Child suck. Some of them have such great Breasts, that throwing them over their Shoulders they suckle their Children, being ty’d at their Backs.

Their Huts being low, are made of Straw, Canes, and Boughs, and not built for one single Family; for often thirty, fifty, a hundred, or a hundred and twenty dwell under one Roof, and have a Governor, by them call’d _Caruca_.

Their Housholdstuff is little and mean, _viz._ two or three Cans to keep their Liquor _Chica_ in, Horn Cups, a Stone whereon they grind their Corn, and one or two woodden Stools: The chiefest of them also use Sheep-skins, which they spread on the Ground before their Guests. They live without care, for they neither Sowe nor Plant any more than will serve them a Year.

Their Riches consist in Cattel, of which they have no great plenty.

About the beginning of _October_ a whole Town meets together to Plough and to Sowe, which the Men perform in two days time, the rest of the Work being left to the care of the Women; for the Men never meddle with Reaping or Harvest.

They eat and drink from Morning to Evening, when they do not travel, for then they eat at set-times. Their Liquor is made of Barley-Meal, or Wheat boyl’d in Water. On Festival Days they drink _Chica_, Brew’d of _Maiz_ chew’d by the Teeth of old Women. They likewise make a Liquor of the Fruit _Unni_, which tastes like _Madera_ Wine.

[Sidenote: Their Marriages.]

Every Man Marries as many Wives as he can buy and maintain, for Maids and Widows must be sold by the Parents, who set not a Price upon them according to their Beauty or Quality, but their skill in managing Houshold Affairs. Their Marriages are perform’d after a strange manner: A Son having no Inheritance, lives on the Charity of his nearest Relations, who Present him, one with a Hog, another with a Cow, a third with a Sheep, and a fourth with somewhat else: thus enrich’d, he goes to his Mistresses Father, and hangs some _Turkoises_ and Plates of Silver about his Neck, and acquainting him with what Estate he can make his Wife, he agrees as well as he can with his intended Father-in-law, to whom he gives ten, fifty, or a hundred Sheep, Oxen, Cows, Hogs, Horses, Poultrey, a Coat, and some Vessels full of _Chica_; which done, the Father leads his Daughter to the Bridegroom’s House, where he is Entertain’d with Meat, but finds the Drink at his own Cost. Some days after the Celebration of the Wedding, the nearest Relations come to congratulate the young Marry’d Woman, and at Dinner sing an _Epithalamium_ to their Nuptial Deity _Maruapeante_, all of them sitting on the Ground on Sheep-skins. The Allies often take away a Woman from her Husband, especially when he misuses her; and if a Man kill his Wife, her Death is reveng’d by her Relations. Persons of Quality build a Hut for every one of their Wives, sending word to her whom they have a mind to enjoy: They respect one above the rest, who are in a manner but Slavesses, being forc’d to do all the Drudgery. The Men are exceeding jealous and chollerick, cruelly beating their Wives, if they chance but to look on another Man; and if they take them in the Act of Adultery, they immediately kill them; yet for all this they are not Chaste, but very Libidinous. As soon as a Woman is Deliver’d of a Child, she washes her self and the Child in cold Water; then kills a Lamb call’d _Chiluraque_, makes a Feast; at which she her self eats and drinks freely amongst the rest, and the next day goes about her usual Employment.

The _Spaniards_ tell us, that their Women, if they continue long in this Countrey, are more and more hardned by the Air, and are as little concern’d at the Birth of a Child as the Natives.

A Widow hath free leave to Marry again, provided she hath given to her Children part of what she hath; but if she Marry not, but return to her Parents, then she is highly esteem’d of.

Both Men and Women wash themselves in the Rivers in the coldest Weather.

[Sidenote: Their Religion, and manner of burying their Dead.]

They adore chiefly their Deity _Pillan_, and the Devil, who doth them much hurt. They acknowledge no Resurrection, accounting long Life in this World the greatest Good; wherefore when any one dies, the Friends and Relations make a doleful Cry, and suffer the dead Body to lie three, nay, four Moneths before they bury them, stuffing them full of strong smelling Herbs, to keep them from putrifying: Three days before their Interrment the nearest Allies meet, kill a Sheep, make Merry, and throw the Body into a Hole near the Hut in which the Deceased dwelt, putting also a piece of the slain Sheep, and a Jug full of the Liquor _Chica_, into the Grave.

Concerning their Idol _Pillan_, to whom with strange Gestures they Sing divers Songs, they believe that he is a Spirit of the Air, and Governs all things on Earth. Some suppose him to be Thunder, and therefore they worship him in a most particular manner when they hear it Thunder; for then they stick an Arrow and Stone Ax into the Ground, and take Arms into their Hands, putting themselves into a posture as if they should suddenly be set upon by a mighty Enemy, and look’d upon it heretofore as a fore-running of the _Spaniards_ approach, whose Cruelties they exceedingly dreaded.

They call all their Hero’s _Pillans_, and ascribe Divine powers to them.

They take very much strong Tobacco, the Smoak whereof puffing in the Air with strange Gestures, they cry, _Receive this, O Pillan_.

[Sidenote: Their cruel usage of Prisoners.]

When they return home Conquerors from any Victory, they put a Stone Ax into the Ground, and standing Arm’d round about the same, Drink exceedingly, and sing a Song in honor of _Pillan_. They use their Prisoners very cruelly, for forcing them to Dance and make Merry amongst them, they on a sudden cleave their Heads with an Ax, pull their Hearts out of their Bodies, and bite the same with their Teeth. After the same manner they punish their Robbers and Traitors; but those that have good store of _Chica_ to Present the Governors with, escape the Execution: Yet this cannot buy off Sorcerers or Witches, who are without mercy burnt alive, with all they enjoy’d.

They have no Priests, nor any that pretend to any religious Function; onely those that can Sing the _Pawary_ well, are in great esteem amongst them.

Their second Deity _Maruapeante_ (they say) informs them in a Dream when they must Marry; but he doth not do them this kindness before they have made themselves Drunk, and sung Sonnets to his praise.

[Sidenote: The manner of chusing the _Nentoque_.]

This Countrey is Govern’d by prime Persons, call’d _Ulmen_, or peculiar Lords, call’d _Curacen_. The _Ulmens_ and _Curacens_ Command twenty five, sometimes fifty, a hundred Families: Their Power consists in calling all the People together, and consulting with them about State-Affairs, which they dare not do with any particular Person, nor Levy any Tax without extraordinary occasion. They are bound to march in the Front of their Subjects against an Enemy, and are under a Governor-General call’d _Apocurace_, or under a _Nentoque_. Other lesser Offices are dispos’d of by the _Curaces_, or _Pulmenes_; but their _Netonques_ are chosen after this manner, _viz._ When that honorable Place is vacant, then whoever aims at it, computes with himself whether his Means will extend so far as to treat the _Curaces_ and _Pulmenes_ with a noble Treat; which if he is able to do, then he sends for them to an appointed place, whither they all go Arm’d, and whilest they are eating and drinking, he that desires the Place begins to tell them of his noble Extract, valiant Exploits, Riches, and eminent Relations, and therefore desires the Place of the deceased _Nentoque_: then the _Curace_ rising, the intended _Nentoque_ hangs a Chain of _Turkoises_, or Cockle-shells about his Neck; whereupon the _Curace_ moves the rest to the Election, without any Articles, the new _Nentoque_ onely promising to Govern all things for the best advantage and benefit of the common State: which done, the _Curace_ takes the Chain of _Turkoises_, and distributes them amongst the primest Persons of Quality, and so they end the Day in Drinking, Dancing and Singing.

After the same manner they chuse an _Apocurace_ or prime Governor; which of late the _Uca_’s, that they may enjoy the more Priviledge themselves, have not elected.

[Sidenote: Their Arms.]

The _Chileses_ Arms consist of Lances as long again as the _Europeans_, made sharp at the Points. They all use Clubs plated with Iron, and _Spanish_ Swords. The _Pulches_, who dwell behind the high Mountains _Cordilbra_, use poyson’d Arrows, make Helmets and Breastplates of Ox-hides, which neither Sword nor Arrow can enter: they all know how to manage a Horse, and the use of a Lance, but are very much afraid of Musquets or Fire-locks.

Because they can neither write nor read, the Governor by a faithful Messenger sends to his inferior Officers such Commands as he judges may tend to the most advantage of the Publick both in Peace and War. This Messenger carries an Arrow with a Ribbon, as a Sign of his Employment; the Arrow is held in the Right-hand, and if he who receives it will answer the Message, then he sends back the same Arrow with another; but if he judges it convenient to acquaint any other _Curaces_ and _Pulmenes_ with the same Message, then he sends one of his own Servants to them with the same Arrow.

[Sidenote: A particular Account of _Chili_.]

As touching the Climate and Production of _Chili_, this Account is given by an Eye-witness: “The Winter Season (saith he) is so tempestuous, that sometimes the Trees are not onely blown up by the Roots, but the Earth it self is rent asunder; some Valleys being fill’d with Snow, swell the Rivers exceedingly when it melts, which overflowing part of the Countrey, makes the same very fruitful. It is also extream cold here, because such sharp Winds blow from the Mountains, that they pierce through the Skin and Flesh of a Man: and indeed these Winds would make the whole Countrey desolate, were not the Mountains overgrown with great Oaken Trees, against which the Wind breaks. Moreover, the Valleys produce Coals, which serve the Inhabitants for Fewel. The Winter bereaves the Trees of Leaves; but not those which grow in the Wildernesses. In _March_ the Fields are full of innumerable sorts of sweet-smelling Flowers; out of some whereof are boyl’d the _Angel-Water_, so call’d for its smell and wholsom taste. The Grass grows in _November_ and _December_ as high as our standing Corn. Turnips, Mint, Clover, and Mustard-seed, grow naturally for several Leagues together. Likewise excellent Physical Herbs grow here, whose power and operation their Doctors, call’d _Maci_, keep from the _Spaniards_. These _Maci_ are in great esteem, not onely amongst the _Chileses_, but also the _Spaniards_, for their great skill in Physick. Amongst these Herbs the chiefest is call’d _Quincia-mali_ which grows but half a hands-breadth above the Ground, and spreads into several Stalks like a Nosegay; and on each Stalk is a Saffron-colour’d Flower. This Herb pull’d Up with the Root, and boyl’d, and the Decoction given to any one that is bruis’d within, works most wonderfully, for it draws out the putrifi’d Blood, though sunk never so deep in the Wound. Moreover the Juice of _Culen_ is also very healing, if us’d for an Ointment, or pour’d on any Wound. This Herb, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Albaciga_, hath sweet-smelling Leaves, and a tall Body. In some places also grows an Herb, not unlike Grass, which boyl’d in Water, immediately cures the Feaver and Spleen, and cleanses the Blood. There are likewise Medicines here, which dissolving the Stone in the Bladder or Kidneys, cause it to be urin’d forth. The Plant _Luce_, which grows out of rented Rocks which are often overflow’d by the Sea, makes a sort of well tasted Bread.”

The Wilderness _Atacama_, which makes a Boundary betwixt _Peru_ and _Chili_, extends Northward ninety Leagues, is dry and barren in Summer, and in the Winter exceeding cold, and cover’d with Snow. No Provision is to be found upon it, except a few wild Sheep, call’d _Guanacos_. About the middle thereof the Brook _La Sal_ rising in the Eastern Mountains, flows Westward through a deep Valley to the Southern Ocean.

[Sidenote: Troublesom Passage from _Peru_ to _Chili_.]

The Water of the fore-mention’d Brook put into any Vessel, immediately turns to Salt, and all along the Shore lie greater or lesser pieces of Salt; so that the Way from _Peru_ to _Chili_ through _Atacama_ is very troublesom: but that which leads thither over the snowy Mountains _Andes_, is much worse, because it is farther about, and threatens the Traveller with Destruction, if he observe not the right Season of the Year; for in the Winter there blows such a cold Wind on these Mountains, that a Man, being suddenly benumm’d, falls down dead on the Ground, and grows stiff against all putrefaction. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that Bodies have been found there as firm and sound, as if they had been living, which had some years before breath’d their last on the said Mountains.

[Sidenote: The Valley _Copayapo_.]

But _Diego Almagro_, who first discover’d _Chili_, Anno 1536. went thither with two Companies of Horse, and five hundred Foot, through the Countreys _Charcas_, _Chicas_, _Xuxayes_, and _Chaquana_, and having pass’d over a craggy Soil and the snowy Mountains _Andes_, he entred into the first _Chilean_ Valley _Capayapo_, having lost no small number of Men and Horses with Hardship and Cold; the inconvenience therefore of both the fore-mention’d Ways between _Peru_ and _Chili_, forc’d Travellers to go along the Shore wash’d by the Southern Ocean. _Copayapo_ bears that Denomination from the _Turkoises_ which a Mountain produces there in great abundance. The Valley it self is the fruitfullest of all _Chili_; for in no place the _Maiz_ grows better, and in greater abundance than here, the Ears being half a Yard long, and the Stalks the length of a Lance; each Grain that is Sow’n, yields at least three hundred in Harvest. All _Spanish_ Fruits grow better here than in _Spain_.

Through the midst of _Copayapo_ runs a River of the same Denomination, and twenty Leagues in length from the _Andes_, and at its Mouth hath a convenient Harbor before the South Sea.

The South part of _Copayapo_ borders the Valley _Guasco_, which is less fruitful than the first, but hath a convenient Haven, into which falls a fresh River, penn’d in by Sluces for the watering of the Cane-Fields. Moreover, there are plenty of Partridges; also wild Sheep and grey Squirrel-skins are of a great value. To the Southward flow also the Rivers _Maypo_, _Chacha_ Pool, _Loro_, and _Moule_.

Beyond these Streams Eastward, the _Promouca_’s dwell near the Mountains _Andes_.

In the Valley _Chili_, which gives Denomination to the whole Countrey, were formerly the famous Gold-Mines _Quillatas_, from whence _Valdivia_, Anno 1544. carry’d an invaluable Treasure. The South Sea makes here a large and convenient Harbor for all manner of Vessels, built two Leagues below the City _Serena_, at a little River, which so moistens the low Countrey, that it produces all manner of Plants. It rains here not above three times a year.

From the Entertainment which Sir _Francis Drake_ met withal here, may sufficiently be conjectur’d the Power of _Serena_; for when the _English_ Landed here for Water, they were driven away not without great loss by three hundred _Castilian_ Horse, and two hundred Foot that Sally’d out of the City. The Mines, though they inclose much Gold, yet they produce but little, because the _Spaniards_, according to the testimony of a _Chilean_ Pilot, whom _Oliver Van Noort_ took Prisoner, destroy’d all the ancient Inhabitants that should have help’d them to dig the Gold.

The City _St. Jago_, lying near the Stream _Topocalma_, receives great benefit by the Haven _Valparayso_, which makes the fore-mention’d River, because in that Haven all Goods that come from _Lima_ are unladen, and the Goods shipp’d aboard. The Countrey about the same produces plenty of Wines, Apples, Corn, and all sorts of Cattel, and especially Horses in such abundance, that thousands of them run wild.

In _Valparayso_ Sir _Francis Drake_ took a Ship from _Valdivia_, laden with two thousand five hundred Bars of fine Gold. But the _Netherland_ Admiral, _Joris Spilbergen_, had not such good success, who Sailing thither with five Ships, _Anno 1615._ discover’d a _Spanish_ Ship in the Harbor; where sending his Boats well Mann’d to fetch off a Vessel that lay hal’d on the Shore, they found it burning, and thereupon Steer’d their Course into a little Inlet full of Rocks, which serv’d the _Spaniards_ in stead of Breast-works; for lying behind them, they fir’d continually on the _Hollanders_; yet _Spilbergen_ Landing with two hundred Men, met a considerable number of _Spanish_ Soldiers, and Horses drawn out on the Shore, from whom they soon fled.

Before the City _La Conception_ lies the Island _Quiriquyna_, whose Straw Huts _Spilbergen_ laid in Ashes.

At the time when _Oliver Van Noort_ came to an Anchor here, the Governor _Franciscus de Quinones_ Commanded seven hundred _Spanish_ Soldiers to reduce the revolted _Chileses_.

Four Leagues from _Conception_ lie the rich Gold-Mines _Quilacoya_, which formerly produc’d great Riches.

Over against the Valley _Arauco_, which rises out of the Sea, lies the Island _Maria_, in a large Inlet made by the force of the Waves.

Here grows abundance of Wheat and Barley. The Rivers also afford plenty of Fish, amongst which there is one call’d _The Lake-Spider_, in whose Eyes are to be seen little Specks, which would exceed Pearl, if they were but hard enough.

Two _Spaniards_ Command forty Natives on _Maria_, and keep them in such slavery, that they may neither eat Apples, Pears, Grapes, Poultrey, or Sheep, though they are there in great abundance.

_Elias Herkmans_ was once in probability to have taken possession of this Island for the _Netherland_ State, had he not been prevented by an extraordinary occasion.

Between the Towns _Conception_ and _Imperial_ lie the Provinces _Arauco_, _Tucapel_, and _Puren_, inhabited by a valiant People, that often alarm the _Spaniards_. In each Province _Valdivia_ built a Fort in the Year 1551. eight Leagues distant from one another. He also discover’d the rich Gold-Mines _De Ongol_, and built the Fort _Confines_ there.

[Sidenote: _Valdivia_ taken Prisoner and cruelly put to death by the
_Indians_.]

The Natives hereabouts being exceedingly opprest by the _Spaniards_, fell upon the Fort in _Puren_, where those in the Garrison, unable to defend themselves, went to _Tucapel_ and from thence to _Arauco_, to Settle there. _Valdivia_ marching with three hundred Men to the Castle in _Tucapel_, was so fiercely assaulted at the River _Leto_, that all his Men were kill’d, and he himself being taken Prisoner, had melted Gold pour’d down his Throat: One Boy onely escaping, brought the news to those in Garrison in the Fort _Arauco_, who fled to _La Conception_, as those from _Puren_ to _Imperial_. Not long after the Lieutenant _Francisco de Villagra_ went with a hundred and sixty Soldier’s to _Raquetta_, a Promontory against the South Sea in _Arauco_, to take Revenge for the Death of his General _Valdivia_; but he also had like to have follow’d the same fate, for he left ninety six Men behind him, and with much ado recover’d _La Conception_: By which means the victorious _Chileses_ came to be so much fear’d, that the _Spaniards_ forsook the Towns _Rica_, _St. Jago_, and _Confines_, and fortifi’d themselves strongly in _Imperial_.

[Sidenote: Description of _Arauco_.]

Concerning _Arauco_, it is a small County, twenty Leagues long and seven broad. The Inhabitants thereof are strangely valiant; those that inhabit the Mountains are call’d _Pulches_, and are generally of a duller Spirit than those that dwell in the Valleys; all of them use long Pikes, Halberds, Bowes and Arrows, Helmets, and Breastplates of Deer-skins, in the Wars; they know when to close and open their Ranks, and stand in good order according to Martial Discipline, which makes the _Spanish_ King receive little benefit from _Arauco_, though it is full of rich Mines, because those in Garrison being five hundred in number, dare not come out of their Fort.

To _Arauco_ belongs the Island _La Mocha_, low on the North side, and rocky on the South; against which the Ocean breaks its Billows: in the middle of it rises a split Mountain, out of whose Gap flows a fresh Brook; the fruitful Soyl produces abundance of Pumpcons, Maiz, Potato’s, and all manner of delicious Fruit, as also Oxen, Sheep, and other Cattel, which go grazing up and down in great Herds; the Village that is upon it boasts about fifty Huts, built long of Straw, with a Door in the middle, and round like an Arch on the top.

[Sidenote: _Van Noon_’s and _Spilbergen_’s Entertainment in _Mocha_.]