SIX MONTHS IN MEXICO. 167 



owners; and, if occupied by a full-dressed 

 audience, the effect would be very imposing, 

 as the whole-length figures of the ladies are 

 seen to much more advantage here than in 

 our theatres, pressing over the high parapet 

 of what we very correctly call boxes. The 

 pit has three divisions, to each of which the 

 prices vary, and each seat is separated by 

 arms, and numbered ; a practice which, how- 

 ever convenient, could hardly be established 

 in our crowded houses. 



The orchestra is indifferent ; the scenery, 

 dresses, and machinery, inferior to the the- 

 atrical exhibitions seen at our Bartholomew 

 fair, and the performers in general that I 

 saw are below mediocrity. 



The house is lighted from above by sconces, 

 each holding a number of glass lamps ; and 

 the light is more pleasing and better than 

 might be expected. It is open every night, 

 and twice on Sunday, on which day, and on 



