238 SIX MONTHS IN MEXICO. 



that of the rattling iron fringe, denotes the 

 consequence and approach of the ambling 

 cavaliero. 



The ladies of the city of Mexico seldom 

 appear on horseback; when they do they 

 are seated in a clumsy box-like side-saddle, 

 placed on the right side, which prevents 

 them from sitting in a graceful manner. 

 Lately, however, some young ladies of dis- 

 tinction have ventured to appear like Euro- 

 pean female equestrians ; and I hope we shall 

 soon see the women of New Spain enjoy their 

 rational liberty, and take air and exercise like 

 those of other parts of the civilized world. I 

 have seen ladies here riding astride the horse, 

 but this is by no means usual. The paysana 

 or country lady is often seen mounted before 

 her cavaliero, who, seated behind his fair one, 

 supports her with his arm thrown round her 

 waist ; and, as females here wear neither hat 

 nor bonnet, he, as a mark of politeness and 



