Chapter I: Page

SURVEY 27

Geographical situation of the Republic--Boundaries and
area--Uruguay as an historical, commercial, and
financial centre--The respective positions of Uruguay
and Paraguay--Disadvantages of a buffer State--A land
of sunshine and shadow--The history of Uruguay--The
blending of industry and warfare--Vitality of the
nation--Instances of self-sacrifice--A South American
Switzerland--A freedom-loving folk--Deeds of arms and
the undercurrents of commerce--Montevideo in the eyes of
the casual traveller--Factors that make for the progress
of the Banda Oriental--Influence of railway--Coming
cessation of the North American beef shipments--
Temperament of the Uruguayan--Distinction between
Argentine and Uruguayan politics--The clans of the
Banda Oriental--The birthright of party convictions--
Education in Uruguay--National points of honour--Liberty
accorded the foreigner--The courtesy of officials--An
incident at the customs-house--Popularity of the
English--A gratifying situation--Satisfactory international
relations--The work of Mr. R. J. Kennedy, the British
Minister Plenipotentiary--Uruguay's pacific foreign
policy--Careful finance--Army and navy--General
progress of the nation.