Description

“We passed another river and came to large rice grounds preparing, in part, for seed and part sowing. An immense number of people and oxen were at work, all above their ankles in water. Some were beating the sods, others lading on water. The proprietors mounted on horseback, in the large brimmed hats, made one think of a West India Planter and his slaves. The seed was in reserve on the back of a melancholy looking mule; who seemed but little to relish his bain de pieds. The view of the interior of the country was pretty: a large Town and Castle on a height, some fine shaped Mountains to which we subsequently drew nearer, an old round Tower, and part of a square castle nearer the sea, with Sciacca and the coast beyond; the Town by the light looking very handsome on a height bathed by the sea. Near Sciacca on a high cliff or Mt. to the right are sweating baths which are much renowned, and at the foot of the hill, on which stands the town, are modern Sulphur baths, also much esteemed.”