Page:Vol 6 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/636

616 animated intercourse between the sexes. The piazza, or the flat roof of the town-house, is often selected as the scene of these merry reunions. Visiting is exacted with frequency, and on all occasions of interest to a family, and with all the old-fashioned Spanish formality — of manner, at least, yet the conversation falls, as a rule, into society gossip. With the rise of inferior and colored persons, by means of political influence and military intrigues, parties present a greater mixture than formerly. Nevertheless, the innate politeness of the Mexican, and his natural suavity of manner, permit a comparatively easy adaptation of tone. With their fondness for show, it may be understood that the revival of a court under Maximilian was not distasteful to society, at least, however much political writers declaim against its affectation and formalities, forgetting that their own presidents have indulged in most unrepublican pomp.

Besides climate, there are numerous reactionary influences which tend to lower the inducement to labor and advance, especially among the great mass which forms the sinews of a nation. The sway of passions, manifest above all in social and political disorders, the insufficiency of educational facilities, the still abnormal control exercised by a retrogressive clergy, and the absorption of land by large holders, are the principal of these retarding causes.

One instance of this is found in the condition of artisans, which is nearly as low and poverty-stricken as that of the laborer. A main cause hereof is the imitative ability of the Indian, who manufactures excellent articles, and hawks about small lots till he can procure the means for a new venture. Like the other humbler classes, known as gentalla, they live from hand to mouth, very much as the Indians, with idling and drinking for chief pleasure, and superstition for mental exercise. Those earning more increase their