The land on each side seemed to be but
rocky and dry; yet in many places we saw spots of green flourishing corn.
At farther distances there were small vineyards by the sides of the
mountains, intermixed with abundance of waste rocky land, unfit for
cultivation, which afforded only dildo-bushes. It was about 7 or 8 in the
morning when we set out from Santa Cruz; and, it being fair clear
weather, the sun shone very bright and warmed us sufficiently before we
got to the city Laguna; which we reached about 10 o'clock, all sweaty and
tired, and were glad to refresh ourselves with a little wine in a sorry
tippling-house: but we soon found out one of the English merchants that
resided here, who entertained us handsomely at dinner, and in the
afternoon showed us the town.
Laguna is a pretty large well-compacted town, and makes a very agreeable
prospect. It stands part of it against a hill, and part in a level. The
houses have mostly strong walls built with stone and covered with
pantile. They are not uniform, yet they appear pleasant enough. There are
many fair buildings; among which are 2 parish churches, 2 nunneries, a
hospital, 4 convents, and some chapels; besides many gentlemen's houses.
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