lagoons. The former measures 150 miles and the latter is 260 miles in length.
Rivers.—The country abounds with brooks and streams, some of which are navigable. The chief rivers are, the Pasion, Usumacinta, Chixoy, Negro, Folochic, Motagua, Margarita, Maria Linda, Guacalate, Madre Vieja, Samala, Michatoya, Paz, and Esclavos.
Lakes,—The principal lakes are: Izabal, Peten, Amatitlan, Ayarza, Lacandon, Atitlan, Cuitlan, Guija, and Itzan. Lake Izabal is the largest (area, 860 square miles). Peten ranks next (area, 160 square miles). The latter is well stocked with fish, and contains a species of alligator. The altitude above the sea-level of Lake Amatitlan is 3,890 feet; that of Lake Ayarza is 3,100 feet; and that of Lake Atitlan is 5,110 feet.
Climate.—Excepting in the vicinity of the marshy lagoons along the Pacific coast, the climate is considered healthy. The rainy season lasts from May to October. The annual rainfall at the capital is computed at fifty-four inches. The rains are heaviest in the tierra templada.
Springs.—Hot and cold springs are abundant in the country. Some of them contain sulphurous water. Important saline springs occur in the departments of Chiquimula and Santa Rosa.
Ports.—The ports on the Atlantic shore are: 1. Izabal, on the south side of the lake of the same name. It lies in north latitude 15° 24', and longitude 89° 9' west of Greenwich. The Rio Dulce forms the outlet of the lake, and the bar at its mouth prevents the entrance of large vessels. 2. Santo Tomás, on the southern end of the Bay of Amatique, in the Gulf of Honduras. It is situated in north latitude 15° 38' 3", and longitude 88° 35' 6" west of Greenwich. It is one of the best ports in Central America, although insalubrious. It is the chief seaport of the eastern coast of the Republic. The depth of water in the harbor
