CHAPTER I

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SURVEY 27

Geographical situation of the Republic--Boundaries and area--Uruguay as an historical, commercial, and financial centre--The respective positions of Uruguay and Paraguay--Disadvantages of a buffer State--A land of sunshine and shadow--The history of Uruguay--The blending of industry and warfare--Vitality of the nation--Instances of self-sacrifice--A South American Switzerland--A freedom-loving folk--Deeds of arms and the undercurrents of commerce--Montevideo in the eyes of the casual traveller--Factors that make for the progress of the Banda Oriental--Influence of railway--Coming cessation of the North American beef shipments-- Temperament of the Uruguayan--Distinction between Argentine and Uruguayan politics--The clans of the Banda Oriental--The birthright of party convictions-- Education in Uruguay--National points of honour--Liberty accorded the foreigner--The courtesy of officials--An incident at the customs-house--Popularity of the English--A gratifying situation--Satisfactory international relations--The work of Mr. R. J. Kennedy, the British Minister Plenipotentiary--Uruguay's pacific foreign policy--Careful finance--Army and navy--General progress of the nation.