Theodore, or the Peruvians (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1825 Excerpt: ... with stones and trunks of trees; and 'thus, separate from the rest of mankind, commenced their labour with order, 'intelligence, and courage. A great portion of the earth was covered with gold, which they removed; and, in its place, planted the potatoe and other useful vegetables. Soon, the cottontree, the cocoa and bananas, strait and tall, and laden with delicious fruit, spread therr protecting shades. Regular habitations next succeeded; and their heirps of gold were converted into a magnificent temple. Why has not this metal been always so innocently employed? The reign of Capana was mild and peaceable as the people he governed. He lived adored, and died lamented; and his revered ashes were deposited in the sacred grove, which his own bands had planted. His successors, inspired with respect for his memory, observed his most minute institutions; and under them, as under Capimit, the children imbibed, with their first milk, an hatred of Europeans, and attachment to their own laws. But hoiv did Theodore, with so much difficulty, find the entrance of this passage? and how happened it, that he met with no obstacle through its whole eitent? Capana's prophecy had been fulfilled. Pizarro and his lieutenants, with others equally ambitious, commenced a bloody war; and the thunder of their artillery resounded through the recesses of Cayambur. The Peruvians doubted not but the moment was arriving, when they might return to their beloved country: with great difficulty, F therefore, they opened the mouth of the cavern, and assembled to appoint a deputy, who should go and learn what was passing in the plain. Capana, tho far advanced in years, not daring to entrust another with so important a commission, determined to go himself to Quito. Neither the tears nor entreatie...