THROUGH CHIAPAS (1896) Tehuantepec is meanly built; it is hot and dusty, and the almost constant winds drive the dust in clouds through the streets.

But its picturesque market is a redeeming feature.

Every morning it is crowded and presents a brilliant and lively spectacle.

All the trade is in the hands of women, and the Tehuantepec women have the reputation of being the handsomest in the world.

They are large, finely-built, and in their movements exhibit an indescribable freedom and grace.