Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.3)

Marchj 1835. effects of earthquake. 3^3 themselves to be ruined, and few had the means of providing food for the day. Can a more miserable and fearful scene be imagined ? Earthquakes alone are sufficient to destroy the prosperity of any country. If, for instance, beneath England, the now inert subterranean forces should exert those powers which most assuredly in former geological ages they have exerted, how completely would the entire condition of the country be changed ! What would become of the lofty houses, thickly- packed cities, great manufacturies, the beautiful public and private edifices ? If the new period of disturbance were first to commence by some great earthquake in the dead of the night, how terrific would be the carnage ! England would at once be bankrupt; all papers, records, and accounts would from that moment be lost. Government being unable to collect the taxes, and failing to maintain its authority, the hand of violence and rapine would go uncontrolled In every large town famine would be proclaimed, pestilence and death following in its train. Captain FitzRoy has given an account of the great wave, which, travelling from seaward, burst over Talcuhano. In the middle of the bay it was seen as one unbroken swell of the water ; but on each side, meeting with resistance, it curled over, and tore up cottages and trees as it swept on- wards with overwhelming force. At the head of the bay it is easy to imagine the fearful hne of white breakers which three times rushed over, and almost obliterated, the ruins of the former town. Pools of salt water yet remained in the streets ; and children, making boats with old tables and chairs, appeared as happy as their parents were miserable. It was, however, exceedingly interesting to observe how active and cheerful all appeared, after their heavy misfortune. It was remarked with much truth, that from the destruction being universal, no one individual was humbled more than another, or could suspect his friends of coldness; and this latter effect is perhaps the most grievous one of the loss of wealth. Mr. Rous, and a large party whom he kindly took