14 



CHILI, 



handkerchiefs affectedly before them. They do 

 not actually meet, but, when almost touching, 

 pass, and continue to revolve round each other, 

 in circles larger or smaller, according to the space 

 allowed; accompanying these rotatory motions 

 by various gesticulations, especially that of wav- 

 ing their handkerchiefs over their partner's heads. 

 There was a striking difference between the man- 

 ner in which these dances were performed by the 

 town's people and by the Guassos or countrymen; 

 the latter having always the advantage both in 

 skill and elegance. 



These amusements lasted throughout the night, 

 and, although the people are naturally temperate, 

 it was evident, that towards morning the dances 

 were apt to acquire a more savage character, and 

 the songs to become licentious. But there were 

 very few instances of intoxication or riotous be- 

 haviour. No women, except those professionally 

 attached to the bands of music, ever dance in 

 public ; but as the men of all classes join occa- 

 sionally, the floor is seldom long unoccupied. 

 More than one couple never stand up at the same 

 time. Each figure lasts about three or four mi- 



