SIX MONTHS IN MEXICO. 



125 



times obliged to climb on our hands and knees. 

 At length, however, by the assistance of un- 

 derwood, and after passing several buildings 

 and terraces, the stucco of which appeared 

 fresh and of a fine peach colour, we arrived 

 at about two-thirds of the height of the hill, 

 almost exhausted with our exertions; and 

 great indeed was our disappointment when we 

 found that our guide had mistaken the situa- 

 tion, and did not exactly know where we 

 were. Greatly chagrined, we began to re- 

 trace our steps ; and luckily in a few minutes 

 perceived the object of our search. It was 

 cut in the solid rock, standing out like a 

 martin's nest from the side of a house. It is 

 not only an extraordinary bath, but still more 

 extraordinarily placed. It is a beautiful basin 

 about twelve feet long by eight wide, having 

 a well nearly five feet by four deep in the 

 centre, surrounded by a parapet or rim two 

 feet six inches high, with a throne or chair, 



