CHAPTER XXVI

COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMERCE 296

British enterprise in South America--The various industries controlled--The railways of the southern continent--A remarkable record--The opening up of new lands--Some possibilities of the future--Sound basis on which the extension of the lines is founded-- Products and transport facilities--Probable influence of communications--Uruguayan railways--A high standard of enterprise--Comfortable travelling--Some comparisons between Uruguay and Argentina as railway countries-- Level country _versus_ hills--Stone _versus_ alluvial soil--Question of ballast--Importance of the new ramifications--Railway construction in Uruguay--History of the lines--Government obligations--Mileage and capital of the companies--Interest paid on capital-- Various railway systems--Areas served--The Central Company--Sketch of lines and extensions--Important developments--The communication with Brazil--Financial position of the Company--Midland Uruguay Railway-- Development and extension of the line--Receipts and expenses--The North Western of Uruguay and Uruguay Northern Railway--Montevidean tramways--Local, British, and German enterprise--Steamer service of the River Plate--The Mihanovich line--Ocean passenger traffic-- Montevideo the sole port of call--The Royal Mail Steam Packet Company--The Pacific Line--The Nelson Line--Other British companies--Position of British exports--Sound consular advice.