Chapter 15

Down into the Hot Lands.--Wonderful Mountain Scenery.--Parasitic Vines.--Luscious Fruits.--Orchids.--Orizaba.--State of Vera Cruz.--The Kodak.--Churches.--A Native Artist.--Schools.-- Climate.--Crystal Peak of Orizaba.--Grand Waterfall.--The American Flag.--Disappointed Climbers.--A Night Surprise.-- The French Invasion.--The Plaza.--Indian Characteristics.-- Early Morning Sights.--Maximilian in Council.--Difficult Engineering.--Wild Flowers.--A Cascade.--Cordova.--The Banana. --Coffee Plantations.--Fertile Soil.--Market Scenes 282