Page:Life in Mexico vol 1.djvu/45

Rh mistress; in fact, behaving like a multitude of spoilt children, who are sure of meeting with indulgence, and presume upon it. . . ..

Towards morning we were led down stairs to a large suite of rooms, containing a library of several thousand volumes; where coffee, cakes, &c., were prepared in beautiful Sêvres porcelain and gold plate. We left the house, at last, to the music of the national hymn of Spain, which struck up as we past through the gallery.

Should the north wind, the dreaded Norte, not blow, we sail to-morrow, and have spent the day in receiving farewell visits. We also went to the theatre, where every one predicts we shall not get off to-morrow. The play was "Le Gamin de Paris," translated. After our return, I paid a very late visit to the Pr family, who live close by us, and now, at two in the morning, I finish my letter sleepily. Many beautiful souvenirs have been sent us, and amongst others, the Count de S V has just sent Cn a model of the palace of Madrid, one of the most beautiful and ingenious pieces of workmanship possible. It is carved in wood, with astonishing accuracy and delicacy.

My next letter will be dated on board the Jason.