[1202] “The stones are of various sizes in different structures, ranging in length from one to eight feet, and in thickness from six inches to two feet. The larger stones are generally at the bottom, each course diminishing in thickness towards the top of the wall, thus giving a very pleasing effect of graduation. The joints are of a precision unknown in our architecture, and not rivalled in the remains of ancient art in Europe. The statement of the old writers, that the accuracy with which the stones of some structures were fitted together was such that it was impossible to introduce the thinnest knife-blade or finest needle between them, may be taken as strictly true. The world has nothing to show in the way of stone cutting and fitting to surpass the skill and accuracy displayed in the Inca structures of Cuzco.”
[1203] Place of serpents.
[1204] An unmarried prince of the blood royal; a nobleman. Father, in the Colla dialect.
[1205] A married prince of the blood royal.
[1206] A married princess; a lady of noble family.
[1207] An unmarried princess.
[1208] At the conquest there were 594, but a great number had been killed in the previous civil war.
[1209] Chiefs.
[1210] Principal chiefs.
[1211] Balboa, Montesinos, Santillana.