Instead of this, the Incas Bridge consists of a
crust of stratified shingle cemented together by the deposits of
the neighbouring hot springs. It appears as if the stream had
scooped out a channel on one side, leaving an overhanging ledge,
which was met by earth and stones falling down from the opposite
cliff. Certainly an oblique junction, as would happen in such a
case, was very distinct on one side. The Bridge of the Incas is by
no means worthy of the great monarchs whose name it bears.
APRIL 5, 1835.
We had a long day's ride across the central ridge, from the Incas
Bridge to the Ojos del Agua, which are situated near the lowest
casucha on the Chilian side. These casuchas are round little
towers, with steps outside to reach the floor, which is raised some
feet above the ground on account of the snow-drifts. They are eight
in number, and under the Spanish government were kept during the
winter well stored with food and charcoal, and each courier had a
master-key. Now they only answer the purpose of caves, or rather
dungeons. Seated on some little eminence, they are not, however,
ill suited to the surrounding scene of desolation. The zigzag
ascent of the Cumbre, or the partition of the waters, was very
steep and tedious; its height, according to Mr.
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