Those that I now saw were yoked in twos or threes to large waggons, full of stones for mending the roads.
Four miles before reaching Candy, we came to the river Mahavilaganga, which is spanned by a masterly bridge of one arch.
The materials of the bridge are most costly, consisting of satin- wood.

In connection with this structure, I learned the following legend.
After the conquest of the island by the English, the natives did not give up the hope of once more attaining their independence, because one of their oracles had declared that it was as impossible for the enemy to obtain a lasting dominion over them, as it was for the opposite banks of the Mahavilaganga to be united by a road.

When the bridge was begun, they smiled, and said that it could never be successfully completed.

At present, I was told, they think of independence no more.
Near the bridge is a botanical garden which I visited the following day, and was astonished at its excellent arrangement, and the richness of its collection of flowers, plants, and trees.
Opposite the garden is one of the largest sugar-plantations, and, in the neighbourhood, a number of coffee-plantations.
In my opinion, the situation of Candy is most beautiful, but many affirm that it is too near the mountains, and lies in a pit.

At any rate, this pit is a very lovely one, abounding in the most luxuriant vegetation.