While engaged in preparing the ensuing pages for the press, I have had an opportunity of perusing the work of M. Guinnard, first published in French, and recently given to the English public in a spirited translation, entitled 'Three Years' Slavery among the Patagonians.' The name necessarily attracted me, but to my great surprise careful perusal led to the distinct conviction that the author's personal experiences were altogether confined to the Pampas Indians north of the Rio Negro. From his own statements and omissions it is quite evident that he was not carried by any of his successive masters across this river, which he clearly and accurately defines to be (p. 40) the northern boundary of Patagonia. The name of Patagonians is, therefore, a complete misnomer; and the curious account (pp. 72-3) of the 'Tchéouelches,' or Foot Nomads, clothed in seal skins and accustomed to live on fish, and literally destitute of horses, is applicable to no tribe whatever east of the Cordillera, the Fuegians being the only race presenting any of the characteristic habits attributed to this so-called Patagonian tribe.
I hope I may not be supposed to be desirous of impeaching the accuracy of M. Guinnard's account of the hardships endured in his captivity, or of the customs of the Indians into whose hands he fell, much of which I can corroborate; but it is to be regretted that he was induced, probably by others, to describe under the name of Patagonians, the Pampas Indians, who, by country, race, language, and character, are marked as being altogether distinct from the Tehuelches of Patagonia.
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.
