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382 Federal Government, he edited the national history entitled "Mexico á travers de los Siglos" ("Mexico Viewed through the Course of Ages"). Among the most popular of his novels is that of The Hill of Las Campanas, which is a thrilling and faithful account of the last days and execution of Maximilian.

At this time Riva Palacio is enjoying the honor of Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary from Mexico to the court of the noble Queen Christina of Spain. As his time is not fully absorbed in his diplomatic duties, he is now writing a historical brochure, and will also soon publish a volume of Mexican legends in verse.

General Palacio's magnificent mansion is the grand center and rallying point of all toilers after lore, and it is there his courtly hospitality shines resplendent, dispensed with equal impartiality to all, whether they be distinguished and acknowledged in the world of letters or only humble aspirants for fame. They here meet together, a common brotherhood, and among them all the host is himself the most brilliant and witty.

An entertainment, probably not excelled intellectually and socially by any given in a private house during the winter, was the Velada Literaria (Musical and Literary Reunion), given by General Palacio on the first night of the New Year, and of which he had previously given me a hint.

The house throughout was a grand scenic illumination, of which the center was the sala grande, with its brilliant assemblage of elegantly dressed people. Diamonds shimmered and flashed, adding to beauty which might be sufficient of itself, the charm that jewels and the accessories of wealth can give, and lighting up the faultless Parisian toilets.

Several ladies were present whose jewels summed up from $100,000 to almost double that amount.

An unusual feature was the reading of a beautiful poem by Señora de Flaquer, the editress of El Album de la Mujer—the only paper at the capital edited by a woman and devoted to the interests of women.