Page:A Study of the Manuscript Troano.djvu/187

Rh Similar crosses found in other Codices, with two indicated halves, denote the meeting of two periods of time—that is, the close of one period and the commencement of another; but it is doubtful whether any such idea is connected with this one. I think it has reference to the newly-formed god, as we see the priest here also presenting offerings. The character at the foot of the priest, according to what we have heretofore ascertained, denotes bread. In the third division we probably see the newly-made images in baskets, covered with cloth, as stated by Landa, whose description of this work will be found in Appendix No. 3, I.

The persons represented in the upper division of Plate XVIII* are piercing their ears and sprinkling the blood on tortillas, or on the sacred stones Acantun.

In the upper division of Plate XIX*, and running over upon the right margin of XX*, and in the second division of the former, we have, as I believe, a series of figures relating to one subject. The earnest desire of the Maya woman for posterity is a fact well known; it is also well known that to this end it was their custom to beseech the aid of their deities with earnest prayers. In this series of figures we see, I think, this custom represented and its result. Commencing at the right of XIX* and moving toward the left, there is, first, the woman pleading with one deity, who turns his back upon her—that is, refuses to grant her prayer; the next one listens, but gives no favorable response; the third is more favorable; and now the first (shown again in the fourth figure) and the second (shown again on Plate XX*) are disposed to be gracious.

In the second division is shown the result. Proceeding from the right towards the left we observe the tightening girdle; next, one strand broken and then the other. The figures on which they are sitting are probably intended for mats.

Although this series may have a general application it is possible that it refers also to incidents in the life history of some goddess, or noted female of the early days of the nation.

The figures in the third division of XVIII* an,d XIX* may have some relation to the series first referred to; but, if so, I have not succeeded in finding it out.