Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/148

122 But their most prolific and potent means of enrichment is at the bedsides of dying capitalists; to whom they promise instant possession of the joys of heaven in exchange for the earthly wealth they are about to leave behind them, or threaten with eternal torments if it be withheld.

In short, the greater part of the wealth and power of the country is thus in the possession of the priests. If it be asked, "What do they perform to the country in return?"—I can only reply, that they mutter a few "Aves," and elevate the host, upon stated occasions. They also eat, drink, and sleep luxuriously; feed upon the best, and wear the finest; play at cards, dance, and gamble with great gusto; lose no opportunity of extending their own power and possessions; and, in a word, take exceeding good care of themselves. They certainly do not appear to think themselves bound to be examples to their flock, to instruct the people, improve their morals, increase their comforts, relieve their wants, or even administer consolation to the afflicted—unless for the sake of self. They have their own interests and gratifications to attend to, and these absorb all their time and all their