ENTHUSIASM AT THE THEATRE. 53 
young people of the different sexes is frequently 
accompanied by glances sufficiently expressive 
to betray its object. 
The pit presented a very singular appear- 
ance, from its assemblage of various com- 
plexions, including every possible shade from 
black to white, although the darker tints had 
greatly the preponderance. Nor was the dis- 
tinction of manners among the different por- 
tions of the audience less striking. No theatre 
in Europe can boast of more decorum and po- 
liteness than prevails here in the boxes; but 
the noisy and coarse vulgarity of the pit would 
not be tolerated in a more refined nation. All 
eyes were eagerly directed towards the Impe- 
rial box, when its curtain, which before had 
been close drawn, was thrown open; their 
Majesties then appeared standing in the front, 
the back of the box being filled by Knights of 
the Southern Cross. Hats and handkerchiefs 
were now again waved, and on every side re- 
sounded ‘ Viva l’Emperador, lEmperadriza, 
la Monarchia !” 
This enthusiasm having been 
rewarded by gracious acknowledgments, the 
drop curtain rose, and an actress came forward 
