CHAPTER XXVI.

EARTHQUAKES IN TROPICAL AMERICA.

Shocks in Asia: lack of reliable information--The Andes region--Great earthquake of Riobamba--Humboldt’s description--Numerous shocks in Venezuela--Catastrophe of Caracas--Effect on the survivors--Frequent convulsions at San Salvador--Total destruction in 1854--Ruffians on the scene--Sudden disaster of Mendoza--Touching incidents--Faithful dogs--Shocks in Peru and gigantic sea wave--Numerous great shocks--The end of all things--The last man 563