had been cleared in the middle, with the exception of some small ottomans, leaving the ornamented side-boards and richly-laden tables at one end, while sofas, chairs, and musical instruments were ranged around. Some brilliantly coloured religious pictures, and a gold crucifix, hung upon the walls; a superb musical clock of large size, with a stuffed parroquet curiously made to move in time with the clockwork, imported from Spain, was conspicuous at the east end of the room; a finely executed and elaborately painted model of the Nativity, with numerous figures, attracted considerable attention; and two pianos, evidently of European construction, stood invitingly open. The tables and side-boards were adorned with massive and finely-wrought silver-plate and glass vases, with ices and other refreshments: groups of beautiful flowers and fine fruits being placed at intervals, which, reflecting back the light from the coloured lamps, imparted a sparkling and refreshing aspect to the whole.
Mexican politeness and compliments, on visiting-, introduction, and leave-taking, are proverbially ludicrous and laboured; this was a good opportunity for witnessing them. Immediately after I had paid my devoirs to my
