Sir John, it is said, contemplated rescuing his men by force, but the
fate of the unfortunate Sir Walter Raleigh, according to some ancient
historians, stayed his hand, and he reluctantly sailed from the coast,
leaving these four members of his crew prisoners of the Spaniards.
Rolt, who published a "History of South America" in 1766, has a rather
curious account of the methods by which the inhabitants of the town of
Concepcion in Chile carried on their business with the Indians.
"There is a beneficial trade carried on by the inhabitants of the
city of Conception, with the Indians behind them, who trade with
the Spaniards in a very peculiar manner, though they have never
negociated a peace with Spain. These Indians are called Aucaes, and
inhabit the mountains, where they retain the primitive customs and
manners of their ancestors. When a Spaniard comes to trade with
them, he addresses himself to the Cacique, or Chief, who, on
perceiving a stranger, cries out, _What, are you come?_ The
Spaniard answers, _Yes, I am come._ Then the Cacique says, _Well?
What have you brought me?_ The merchant answers, _A present._ And
the prince replies, _Then you are welcome.
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