The people of Peru, and especially of Arequipa, have always taken great interest in the observatory, and have extended to it many favors and constant good-will. There is a university in the city of Arequipa which is supported by the Peruvian government. There is no lack of educated and refined Peruvian society, and in addition there are American, English and German colonies. The laboring and servant classes are half-breeds, usually illiterate and careless, but kindly and contented. Besides these, especially in the interior, are large numbers of civilized Indians. In the low lands lying about the head waters of the Amazon are also numerous groups of savages, but they are never seen near Arequipa, and are slowly becoming half-civilized or disappearing. Revolutions have been numerous in the past history of Peru, and one occurred since the establishment of the station in Arequipa, but not the slightest indignity was offered to the observatory or its members. The common people of Peru, even in time of revolution, are not dangerous, and those who are not actually engaged in warfare are seldom molested. It is a game of politics, carried on by bullets instead of ballots, and without permanent hatreds. For several years past no revolution of importance has occurred, and there are strong indications that Peru has at last entered on a career of peace and prosperity. Such, at least, is the earnest wish of her best citizens.
