Page:Impressions of Spain in 1866.djvu/35

Rh tiles, up to a certain height, giving that clean bright look which distinguishes the Spanish hos- pitals from all others. At the end of each ward was a little altar, where mass is daily performed for the sick. There are fifty men and fifty women, and the surgical department was carefiilly sup- plied with all the best and newest instruments, which the surgeon was eager to show oflf to the doctor, the only one of the party worthy of the privilege. The wards opened into a 'patio,' or court, with seats and bright flowers, where the patients who could leave their beds were sitting out and sunning themselves. Altogether, it is a noble institution; and one must hope that the ruthless hand of government will not destroy it in common with the other charitable foundations of Spain.