We were very kindly received by the English merchants to whom my companion had letters, and we set ourselves to learn what was the real state of things in Mexico.

The plateau of Mexico is 8,000 feet high, and that of Puebla 9,000 feet.

During the Tertiary period the whole valley of Mexico was one great lake.

The journey and excursions in Mexico which have originated the narrative and remarks contained in this volume were made in the months of March, April, May, and June of 1856, for the most part on horseback.

Taking it as a whole, Mexico is a grand city, and, as Cortes truly said, its situation is marvellous.

The interior of Mexico consists of a mass of volcanic rocks, thrust up to a great height above the sea-level.