CHAPTER IX.

PROGRESS OF INLAND DISCOVERY.

Ignorance of the Buenos Ayreans respecting the lands south of the Salado previously to their Independence. Colonel Garcia's expedition to the Salt Lakes in 1810. The Government of Buenos Ayres endeavours to bring about an arrangement with the Indians for a new boundary. Their warlike demonstrations render futile this attempt. March of an army to the Tandil, and erection of a Fort there. Some account of that part of the country. The coast as far as Bahia Blanca examined, and extension of the frontier-line as far as that point. The hostility of the Indians makes it necessary to carry the war into the heart of their Territories. General Rosas rescues from them 1500 Christian captives. Detachments of his army occupy the Choleechel, and follow the courses of the River Negro and of the Colorado till in sight of the Cordillera Page 117