A Visit to South America; with Notes and Observations on the Moral and Physical Features of the Country, and the Incidents of the Voyage

Abstract

MR. CLARK'S modest little narrative is considerably superior to the ordinary run of modern books of travel, which have become as plentiful, nearly, as novels, though we are glad to say, on the average, much more worth reading. Mr. Clark has certain scientific qualifications which give him an advantage as an observer of phenomena both on sea and land, and the results of which are apparent in the volume before us. Mr. Clark's narrative relates to the years 1876–77, during which he resided for nearly two years in Buenos Ayres, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The two latter regions are yet sufficiently unknown to make any contribution from a competent observer who has visited them, welcome. The information, especially, which he gives us on Paraguay, is of much importance, and is a valuable addition to that obtained by Mr. Keith Johnston, in his visit two or three years ago. From a scientific point of view, perhaps the most valuable portion of Mr. Clarke's book are the numerous meteorological notes which he made both during his voyage out and his stay in South America. His knowledge of meteorology in its widest sense seems to us both extensive and accurate, and his observations on the instruments he used, on doldrums, tropical evaporation, and other such topics, are really interesting. But Mr. Clark knows something also of botany, as is evident from the frequent observations in this direction to be found throughout his volume. A whole chapter is devoted to the climate and meteorology of Buenos Ayres, important both from a scientific and practical point of view, as it is one of the great centres of emigration for South America. Many interesting sketches are given of the people and their mode of life in the various districts visited by Mr. Clark, and altogether his work is one of substantial value and real interest, and we trust it will find many readers.

A Visit to South America; with Notes and Observations on the Moral and Physical Features of the Country, and the Incidents of the Voyage.

By Edwin Clark (London: Dean and Son, 1878.)