On the 12th the Starling was despatched to Libertad in order to make the necessary arrangements for obtaining time there, at the instant of our arrival, as well as to make enquiries, and provide for our visit to San Salvador, where our Consul-general, Mr. Chatfield, resided.
Realejo is the only port after quitting Panama where British residents can be found, or supplies conveniently obtained. Water of the finest quality is obtained from a powerful stream, into which the boat can be brought and the casks filled by baling, alongside of a small wall raised to cause a higher level. Here the women resort to wash, but by due notice to the Alcalde, this is prevented. A guide is necessary on the first visit, after entering the creek which leads to it, and which should only be entered at half flood; it is necessary to pole the remainder, the channel not having sufficient width for oars.
The water from the well on the island of Aserradores is good, but I have a great objection to water infiltrated through marine sand and decayed vegetable matter, and consider the chances of sickness one step removed by obtaining it from a running stream.
The mountains in the neighbourhood of Realejo are magnificent, particularly to the spectator at twelve or fifteen miles off shore; but as they will be subsequently noticed, as well as the Estero Doña Paula, which leads up to Leon, I shall not advert to them further at present.
