EL PASO. 
147 
welfare of his people in New Mexico and the northern 
states of Old Mexico, all of which are comprised in 
his diocese. From the city of Durango, where he 
resides, he had been about fifteen hundred miles, 
to the north, visiting his churches in the most extreme 
points of New Mexico. He was accompanied by Dr. 
Rubio, his secretary. In his journey north of El Paso, 
when he entered the territories of the United States, 
the Bishop received every attention from the civil 
and military authorities, and was furnished with 
escorts by the latter through such portions of the 
country as could not be traversed in safety without. 
His gratitude for this kindness was warmly expressed. 
He made particular inquiries about the United States 
Boundary Commission, the duties intrusted to it, the 
character of the country it would have to explore, the 
Indian tribes, etc., etc. 
The next day we rode over to El Paso, to attend 
mass, and hear a discourse from the Bishop. His con- 
gregation was large and attentive. Crowds of well 
dressed persons were assembled arolind the exterior 
of the church, unable to gain admission. This was a 
fine occasion to see the people, as there was a general 
turn out. The women all wore dark rebosos^ or scarfs, 
around their heads and shoulders, and in general were 
gaily dressed. The more genteel appeared in black. 
Much attention is paid to costume, and the senoritas 
fully appreciate the effect of particular colors on the 
complexion ; hence, one seldom sees in Mexico those 
delicate lilacs, pinks, and sky-blues which are so much 
worn by, and are so becoming to, the fair Anglo-Sax- 
on. Bright colors are mostly worn, which set off the 
