CHAPTER I.

FROM THE STRAITS TO SANTA CRUZ. PAGE Journey Planned. -- Preparations. -- Passage from Stanley. -- The Straits. -- First Footsteps in Patagonia. -- The Narrows. -- Punta Arenas. -- Commandante Viel. -- The Colony. -- The Town. -- Chilotes and Convicts. -- Resources. -- Visit to the Coal Bed. -- Lieut. Gallegos. -- The Start. -- Rio Chaunco. -- The Patagonian Pampas. -- Our Party. -- Cabecera del Mar. -- Oazy Harbour. -- A useless Chase. -- A Fireless Night. -- Volcanic Hills. -- Pampa Yarns. -- Rio Gallegos. -- First Indians. -- Sam Slick. -- Rio Cuheyli. -- Meeting with Tehuelches. -- Caravan of Women. -- 'Anglish' Politeness. -- Desert. -- Santa Cruz at last 1