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Darwin, Charles, 1809-1882

"The Voyage of the Beagle"

(14/2.
For a full account of the volcanic phenomena which accompanied the
earthquake of the 20th, and for the conclusions deducible from
them, I must refer to Volume 5 of the "Geological Transactions.")


CHAPTER XV.
(PLATE 72. HIDE BRIDGE, SANTIAGO DE CHILE.)
Valparaiso.
Portillo Pass.
Sagacity of mules.
Mountain-torrents.
Mines, how discovered.
Proofs of the gradual elevation of the Cordillera.
Effect of snow on rocks.
Geological structure of the two main ranges, their distinct
origin and upheaval.
Great subsidence.
Red snow.
Winds.
Pinnacles of snow.
Dry and clear atmosphere.
Electricity.
Pampas.
Zoology of the opposite sides of the Andes.
Locusts.
Great Bugs.
Mendoza.
Uspallata Pass.
Silicified trees buried as they grew.
Incas Bridge.
Badness of the passes exaggerated.
Cumbre.
Casuchas.
Valparaiso.
PASSAGE OF THE CORDILLERA.
MARCH 7, 1835.

We stayed three days at Concepcion, and then sailed for Valparaiso.
The wind being northerly, we only reached the mouth of the harbour
of Concepcion before it was dark. Being very near the land, and a
fog coming on, the anchor was dropped. Presently a large American
whaler appeared close alongside of us; and we heard the Yankee
swearing at his men to keep quiet, whilst he listened for the
breakers.


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