give rise to four large rivers, called by their Indian names, Alatahama,
Savanna, Santee and Pedee. Among the hills these rivers are composed of
different branches, and run in a rapid course; but lose their velocity
when they reach the plains, through which they glide smoothly along, in a
serpentine course, to the ocean. Up these large rivers the tide flows a
considerable way, and renders them navigable for ships, brigs, sloops and
schooners, and smaller craft force their way still higher than the tide
flows. Besides these large rivers, the hills in the heart of the country
give rise to others of a secondary size, such as Ogetchee, Cusaw,
Cambahee, Edisto, Ashley, Cooper, and Black rivers; all which are also
navigable many miles from the ocean. The coast is also chequered with a
variety of fine islands, around which the sea flows, and opens excellent
channels, for the easy conveyance of produce to the market.

[Sidenote] Of its soil and lands.

By the different trees which cover the lands the soil is distinguished,
which in some places is very rich, and in others very poor. Where the
pine-trees grow the ground is sandy and barren, and produces little
except in rainy seasons. The oaks and hickories delight to grow in a
lower and richer soil, running in narrow streaks through the different
eminences, which grounds, when cleared and cultivated, amply reward the
industrious planter. The cypresses and canes chuse a still deeper and
more miry soil, which is exceedingly fruitful, having had the fruits and
foliage of trees from the higher grounds flowing into it from the
creation. The river swamp lands, by proper culture and judicious
management, are of inexhaustible fertility. The savannas and open plains
are of a deep fat and greasy mould, which when drained and freshened,
become also fruitful and excellent parts of a plantation. The marshy
grounds, some of which are fresh and others salt, are much neglected, yet