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��MALAGA.
��the eye and lighten the pockets of passers-by, while others were provided with these substantial things needful to satisfy the wants of the inner man. At night the Alameda was most brilliantly illuminated by long lines of lights ex- tending the whole length on either side, also across the centre at intervals, with occasional circles and clusters, produc- ing a most dazzling effect. At each end, in front of the fountains were erected two pavillions, one under the direction of a club styled the "Circulo Mercantil," the other by the members of the "Lycio" both of which were handsomely decorated with flags and flowers and provided with comfortable seats. We availed ourselves of the op- portunity to attend the balls given in these pavillions, and found them ex- ceedingly diverting. In the centre, a space was reserved for the dancers, who tripped the "light fantastic" with apparent enjoyment, notwithstanding the disadvantages of little room and much heat. The toilettes of the ladies were varied and elegant, displaying a taste which would do credit to Worth himself, while the national costume, worn by a few young ladies, far exceed- ed the most charming conceptions of that famous artist. This costume, call- ed the "Maja," is extremely pictur- esque, especially when combined with the piquant faces and nonchalant airs of the Spanish girls. It consists of a skirt of bright red or blue satin, edged with a broad trimming of black chenille ; with this is worn a black velvet bodice, the hair is arranged in finger puffs, with a high comb placed jauntily on one side, and a few flowers gracefully twined among the dark tresses ; a Spanish mantilla, and laced slippers, just dis- closed beneath the short skirt, complete this beautiful costume, rich in fabric, but simple in design, and above all al- lowing a graceful freedom which our present straight laced fashions render
��impossible. Weary of the brilliancy and animation of the ballroom, we passed to the garden where tables were arranged for refreshments, and amid the sound of inspiring music and the gentle murmur of the fountain, par- took of delicate viands served by atten- tive waiters. The arrangement of these pavillions was perfect in every re- spect, contributing in the highest de- gree to the comfort of the guests, and long shall we bear in remembrance the pleasant evenings they afforded us.
On Corpus Christi day a long and imposing procession marched through the principal streets, carrying an image of the "Virgin" robed in black velvet elaborately embroidered in gold, and a large "Custodia" of solid silver con- taining the "host." The clergy, in their clerical gowns, with their faces plump and glossy, walked along in a self-satisfied manner, confident of good cheer in this world, whatever may await them in another. The civil and military authorities added their digni- fied presence, followed by a large con- course of people with wax candles. The streets and balconies were filled with men, women, and children of all ages and classes, every available space being occupied. In the afternoon a bull fight took place, and a ball in the evening ended the programme of the day.
In the midst of the festivities of the week, the Queen's illness was an- nounced, causing a suspension of all gayety, and her subsequent death was followed by a season of mourning. The Alameda was stripped of its superfluous adornings, and the sound of music no longer filled the air with its sweet har- monies. Funeral services were solem- nized in the Cathedral, and many a fervent prayer ascended to Heaven for the repose of the dead, and the resig- nation of the bereaved young King.
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