Page:Impressions of Spain in 1866.djvu/78

58 of a body of park-keepers dressed in full Andalusian costume. The hotel is placed on the very crest of the hill overlooking the magnificent range of snowy mountains to the right. To the left, the first thing which strikes the eye is the Torre de Justicia. Over the outer horse-shoe arch is carved an open hand, upon the meaning of which the learned are divided; some saying it is an emblem of the power of God, others a talisman against the Evil Eye. Over the inner arch is sculptured a key, which typified the power of the Prophet over the gates of heaven and hell. A double gate protects this entrance, which no donkey may pass: in the recess is a very beautiful little picture, filmed and glazed, of the Virgin and Child. Passing through this arch, you come to an open ’plaza,' out of which rise two towers; one has been bought by an Englishman, who has converted the lower part of it into his private residence. (Where shall we not find our ubiquitous countrymen?) The other is