These were framed in a costly and elegant manner.

From the ceiling were suspended chandeliers of a curious and unique construction, holding in their outstretched branches wax candles of an ivory whiteness.
Large vases of waxen flowers, covered with crystals, stood around the hall upon tables of polished marble.

Other articles of furniture, candelabra, girandoles, gilded clocks, filled the outline.

Broad mirrors reflected the different objects; so that, instead of one apartment, this hall appeared only one of a continuous suite of splendid drawing-rooms.
And yet, upon closer observation, there seemed to be no door leading from this hall, which, as Don Cosme informed his guests, was the _ante-sala_.
Our host approached one of the large mirrors, and slightly touched a spring.

The tinkling of a small bell was heard within; and at the same instant the mirror glided back, reflecting in its motion a series of brilliant objects, that for a moment bewildered our eyes with a blazing light.
"_Pasan adentro, Senores_," said Don Cosme, stepping aside, and waving us to enter.
We walked into the drawing-room.