280 
MEXICO. 
•In the first figure, you will observe feathers depending from the crest 
and back, similar to iliose on the sculptures of Xochicaico and Palenque; 
and, in the second, you will perceive that they are arranged in a circle 
of rays, so as to be, seen in front, as on the statue from Oajaca. Another 
thing is interesting in these figures of our Northern Indians. On the 
robe of the first Indian is an open hand. This, too, has been the subject 
of great speculation by recent writers. Mr. Stephens found it constantly 
in the temples he explored. It is in several places on the sides of the 
*• gladiatorial stone," at page 124 of these letters ; and Mr. Schoolcraft 
(unquestionably the best informed of our Indian scholars,) regards it as 
emblematic of strength, courage and power. 
The figure in the collection of the Conde del Peiiasco, is a deity con- 
nected with the Indian notions of fruition or plenty. The ears of corn in 
the head-dress indicate this idea, while the whole, perhaps, may be an idol 
of Centeotl, the "goddess of the Earth and Grain," or, (as she was more 
confidingly called,) " she who supports us." 
I had just finished sketching the idols represented in the preceding 
plates, when I was called to the window by the noise of a crowd below, 
gathered around a man lying on his back. I presumed it to be one of 
the numberless street-fights or quarrels with which you are daily an- 
noyed in this Capital, and was about retiring, when the fellow suddenly 
raised his legs in the air — balanced himself by his shoulders — and, pitch- 
ing up a pole horizontally, caught it on his feet. 
This, too, was a remnant of antiquity, and having sketched the exhib- 
itor alongside of an idol, I do not think him out of place in this letter. 
The ancient Mexicans had a variety of similar sports ; — such as bal- 
ancing on each other's shoulders ; on staves ; and on wheels whirling in 
the air ; but this exercise, with the pole or beam, was perhaps the most 
