At every turn magnificent cedars might have been seen levelled by the axe, only a few feet of the trunk being used to make boards and shingles, while the greater part was left to rot or burn.

These irregularities have been now almost stopped; and 266 persons, in Montserrat alone, have taken out grants of land, some of 400 acres.

But this by no means represents the number of purchasers, as nearly an equal number have paid for their estates, though they have not yet received their grants, and nearly 500 more have made application.

Two villages have been formed; one of which is that where we rested, containing the church.

The other contains the warden's residence and office, the police-station, and a numerously attended school.
The squatters are of many races, and of many hues of black and brown.