Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/157

Rh grotesquely carved and gorgeously decorated ceilings and cornices, meet the eye on every side. The altar itself is a luxuriously finished miniature gold temple, with hidden recesses and jewelled folding-doors, surrounded by massive and costly balustrades, and adorned with numerous chased golden candlesticks, on cushions of crimson velvet with gold fringes. Highly coloured images of saints, splendidly dressed, illuminated missals, vases of fragrant incense, and founts of holy water, combine to bewilder the senses. Figures of the Virgin, richly jewelled and gilt, glitter on conspicuous elevations, wearing diamonds and emeralds, pearls and rubies, on their foreheads and about their necks. Gold and silver cups, vases, chains and boxes, magnificently attired priests, and solemn chanting, aid alike to dazzle the eye and charm the ear. While a numerous array of youthful attendants on the altar, stand with folded hands, or are employed in bearing candles, swinging censers of incense, carrying holy water for sprinkling, or sustaining the long trains of the priests' vestments.

The wealth of the Catholic church establishment in this country is astounding; and becomes more apparent when contrasted with