On Corpus Christi day a long and imposing procession marched through the principal streets, carrying an image of the “Virgin” robed in black velvet elaborately embroidered in gold, and a large “_Custodia_” of solid silver containing the “_host_.” The clergy, in their clerical gowns, with their faces plump and glossy, walked along in a self-satisfied manner, confident of good cheer in this world, whatever may await them in another. The civil and military authorities added their dignified presence, followed by a large concourse of people with wax candles. The streets and balconies were filled with men, women, and children of all ages and classes, every available space being occupied. In the afternoon a bull fight took place, and a ball in the evening ended the programme of the day. In the midst of the festivities of the week, the Queen’s illness was announced, causing a suspension of all gayety, and her subsequent death was followed by a season of mourning. The Alameda was stripped of its superfluous adornings, and the sound of music no longer filled the air with its sweet harmonies. Funeral services were solemnized in the Cathedral, and many a fervent prayer ascended to Heaven for the repose of the dead, and the resignation of the bereaved young King. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES 1. Silently corrected typographical errors and variations in spelling. 2. Anachronistic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings retained as printed. 3. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_. End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Granite Monthly. Vol. II. No. 7. Apr., 1879, by Various