MILITARY REWARDS. 291 



In the evening, the brightest scholars of 

 the College of Rosario performed at the 

 theatre the tragedy of The Destruction of 

 the Knights Templars," with great eclat ; and 

 also the monologue of Ariadne. This was 

 preceded by a prologue, replete with pa- 

 triotic sentiments, and well calculated to ex- 

 cite the most lively enthusiasm in favour of 

 liberty. 



Dec. 28th. This day a sum of money, given 

 by the citizens, was distributed amongst 

 the military invalids ; the town council con- 

 ducting them from their barracks to an ele- 

 vated platform in the centre of the plaza, 

 attended by a band of music. There were 

 read aloud the exploits of each individual, 

 the various battles in which he had distin- 

 guished himself, and that in which he was 

 disabled ; a crown of laurel was placed on 

 his brow, and the money given. When this 

 was concluded, they returned to their bar- 

 u 2 



