THOMAS] EXPLANATION OF FIGURES ON PLATES XVIIP-XXI*. 121 



Similar crosses found in other Codices, with two indicated halves, denote 

 the meeting of two periods of time — that is, the close of one period and the 

 commencement of another; but it is doubtful whether any such idea is con- 

 nected with this one. I think it has reference to the newly-formed god, as 

 we see the priest here also presenting oiferings. The character at the foot 

 of the -priest, according to what we have heretofore ascertained, denotes 

 bread. In the third division we probably see the newly-made images in 

 baskets, covered with cloth, as stated by Landa, whose description of this 

 work will be found in Appendix No. 3, I. 



The persons represented in the upper division of Plate XVIII* are pierc- 

 ing their ears and sprinkling the blood on tortillas, or on the sacred stones 

 Acantun. 



In the upper division of Plate XIX*, and running over upon the right 

 margin of XX*, and in the second division of the former, we have, as I 

 believe, a series of figures relating to one subject. The earnest desire of 

 the Ma^^a woman for posterity is a fact Avell known; it is also well known 

 that to this end it was their custom to beseech the aid of their deities with 

 earnest prayers. In this series of figures we see, I think, this custom rep- 

 resented and its result. Commencing at the right of XIX* and moving • 

 toward the left, there is, first, the woman pleading with one deity, who turns 

 his back upon her — that is, refuses to grant her prayer; the next one listens, 

 but gives no favorable response; the third is more favorable; and now the 

 first (shown again in the fourth figure) and the second (shown again on 

 Plate XX*) are disposed to be gracious. 



In the second division is shown the result. Proceeding from the right 

 towards the left we observe the tightening girdle; next, one strand broken 

 and then the other. The figures on which they are sitting are probably 

 intended for mats. 



Although this series may have a general application it is possible that 

 it refers also to incidents in the life history of some goddess, or noted female 

 of the early days of the nation.' 



The figures in the third division of XVIIl* and XIX* may have some 

 relation to the series first referred to; but, if so, I have not succeeded in 

 finding it out. 



