CHAPTER XVI.
SCENES FROM MY WINDOW.
THE striking characteristics which abound in all parts of Mexico are more plainly exhibited in the capital itself than elsewhere.
The preponderance of the full-blooded Indian is noticeable in the lower classes; high cheek-bones, coarse, straight hair, the same sidewise trot, tipping from right to left, and all pigeon-toed.
The poorer classes all wear the serape, which, owing to its brilliant coloring, adds greatly to the effectiveness of a street scene. Many a housewife, artistically inclined, looks enviously at these beautiful wraps, and longs to drape them as curtain or portière.
Day by day, seated at my window, I watched the various groups that by some strange and happy chance seemed to fall together for my pleasure and entertainment.
The number and variety of articles which are transported by both men and women are certainly noticeable to the most indifferent observer. Young backs are early trained and disciplined, and the boys and girls bear burdens that might stagger a burro.
