CHAPTER XI.
An early drive—Visit to Churches—The Cathedral—dash;Description—Reflections—Church of the Binondo Quarter—The Dead Child—Baptism—Life's Entrances and Exit—Ceremony of taking the Veil—Poor Maraquita—An Episode—Don Cæsar de Bazan—Interior of the Convent—Interview with the Lady Superior—Interchange of compliments—Spanish Courtesy—An admission.
Sunday morning, took an early drive upon one of the beautiful roads that penetrate the interior of this fruitful island, and returned with a keen appetite for breakfast; this dispatched, drove with a party to visit the churches.
Went first within the walls to the Cathedral. Mass was over, and they were about to close the church. Had an opportunity, however, to obtain a hasty look at its interior.
It is very spacious and very grand, the roof supported by pillars about twelve feet in thickness. No galleries.
The principal altar was quite imposing, and upon it, plate of considerable value was exposed.
There are also other altars, and a number of chapels inclosed.
A full length figure of our Saviour, after His Descent from the Cross, is extended in a glass case beneath one of the altars, exciting grateful emotion for that love which caused Him to lay down His life for man, but not a proper subject, in my opinion, for exhibition.