season for that dread disease, cases of
it had already broken out in the city; at the same time he stated that
more than eight hundred cases of small-pox were reported in Merida,
and that many of them were of the most virulent. Sunday we had walked
through dust ankle-deep upon the roads; Tuesday and Wednesday it was
with difficulty that we could cross the streets, which were filled with
mud, and, part of the time, with muddy water a foot and more in depth.
This is a frequent occurrence, and foot-passengers who desire to cross
the street are often forced to hire a coach for that purpose. As one
walks the street, he runs constant risk of being splashed with mud and
water from passing vehicles and street-cars. During the four days we
spent in Merida we met several persons interested in literary lines, and
visited a number of institutions, among which the most interesting was
the Museo Yucateco, of which Senor Gamboa Guzman is in charge. It is by
no means what it should be, or what, with but small outlay, it might be.
But it contains interesting things in archaeology, in local history, and
in zoology. It is of special interest to Americans because Le Plongeon
was interested in its foundation and early development.

An old gentleman, clerk in the diocesan offices, advised us to visit
Tekax and Peto for our study. The governor had set the hour of two for
our reception. Merely to see when he would come, we seated ourselves
in the garden of the plaza, so that we could watch the entrance to
the palace. Two came, but no governor. At 2:30 several gentlemen were
waiting near the office door. At three no governor had arrived. At five
minutes past three, we noticed that hum of excitement and expectation
which usually heralds some great event, and looking down the street, saw
the governor pompously approaching. As he passed, hats were removed and
profound salutations given. Waiting until he had entered the office, we
walked up to the reception room, where we found ten or twelve gentlemen
waiting audience. The great man himself had disappeared into an office
which opened onto this reception-room, but the door of which was not
closed. All waited patiently; from time to time the usher-secretary
crept noiselessly to the office door and peeked through the key-hole
to see whether the executive was ready. Finally, at 3:35 the word was
given, and the privilege of the first audience was granted to myself.
During these days of waiting--something