Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/55

Rh through the deserted rooms and dismantled galleries, musing on the days that are gone by, and on their dreary prospects of the future.

Of all the stately edifices which once graced the city—and they are noble even in their decay—scarcely any have retained their endowments, except the establishments belonging to the priesthood: these are still wealthy and luxurious; and perhaps the very decline of some far more deserving institutions, may have promoted their prosperity and splendour.

The Mineria, or school of mines, is one of the very finest building's in all Mexico, and would not disgrace the best squares either of London or Paris. It was designed by Tolsa—a Spanish sculptor and architect—and erected under his superintendence, at a cost equal to one hundred and thirty thousand pounds, English money; which sum was contributed by the wealthiest persons in Mexico. It is built with a very clear kind of freestone, and is of great extent; containing numerous magnificent saloons and upper chambers, besides courts, galleries, staircases, and commodious ante-rooms.

The enthusiastic anticipations of its