Page:A narrative of the life and travels of Mrs. Nancy Prince (IA f6a39042-17bd-4c77-b0f7-b54a0f350e33).pdf/31

 the ice, ornamented with gold and evergreens, and a row of spruce trees, extending from the door of the palace to the church. At this time all the nobles, of different nations, make their appearance in their native costume. The Patriarch, Archbishops, and other dignitaries of the court, have a service; then they pass through and christen the water, and make it holy; then there is a great rush of the people for this holy water. On the plain an ice hill is built, eighty feet high, where the emperor and his court exercise themselves.

Februrary 10th is another holiday. Buildings are constructed on the plain for the occasion. All kinds of amusements may be found here, and all kinds of animals seen; much time and money are spent. The buildings are built in rotation. All the children of the different seminaries and institutions of education, are driven round in gilded carriages to witness the performances. After this is the great Fast, previous to the crucifixion of our Saviour. Then Christ is represented as riding into Jerusalem; branches of trees are placed on the ice, and strewed through the streets, and every performance is carried out. The Saviour is made of white marble; he is crucified and buried, and on the third day he rises, according to the Scriptures; then the can-