Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/184

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 Manner of addressing-priests.—Formation of lengthy Aztec words.—Temples and idols.—Great temple of Teocalli, its square wall, gates, and threshold gods.—Initiatory chapel and its accessories.—Square for religious dances.—Dimensions of temple.—Steps and balustrade of different stories.—Platform and holy towers.—Vessels for sacred fire.—Minor chapels.—Religious sacrifices.—Gods of providence and war.—Colossal female idol.—Ancient worship.

Aztecs or ancient Mexicans, habitually addressed their officiating priests thus:—

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This, strange to say, is only a single Aztec word, complete and undivided; which, translated into an English sentence, would signify, "Venerable-priest-whom-I-cherish-as-my-father."

Excessively long words, of similar construction, are characteristic of the ancient Mexican tongue; they are not compounded, as is the