Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/166

140 This report, which they had every reason to fear was but too correct, had the effect of greatly increasing the consternation of the priests.

The superior ecclesiastic and two of his favourites, had come to the determination, without the knowledge of their brethren, that a subterranean vault should be formed under a particular part of the cathedral; where, in time of need, the most valuable of the church's possessions might be deposited. With much ingenuity the desired receptacle was stealthily completed, and the entrance preserved a profound secret among the worthy trio. They had decided that the only means of access should be by a trap-door from above, closed with an invisible spring,— and the trapdoor was cunningly fixed, and the imperceptible spring duly set, accordingly.

The disturbances in the vicinity increased. Insurrection followed insurrection; outrage succeeded outrage; pillage appeared to become the order of the day. Neither life nor property was held sacred; and the cathedral itself was threatened with an invasion.

"We must watch vigilantly and incessantly, from night to morning, each in his turn,"