| _d_ |
|_____|_____|
| | |
| _e_ | _f_ |
|_____|_____|

to be read (presumably) in the alphabetic order of the letters given;
though the order in which they are to be read is not essential at
present. Examining the series carefully we find that the first character
of each group corresponding with _a_ in the above diagram is the same
throughout. The same thing is true in reference to the third, or that
occupying the place of _c_ in the diagram, which is the symbol of the
deity. The sixth, or that corresponding with _f_ in the diagram, is also
the same throughout the series; the fifth, corresponding with _e_, is
substantially the same throughout, though subject to more variations than
any of the other characters. It follows, therefore, that the chief and
almost the only differences in the readings of the groups are to be found
in the second and fourth characters, or those represented by _b_ and _d_
in the above diagram; the others (at least those represented by _a_, _c_,
and _f_), if referring at all to the figures, must relate to something
found in or applicable to each. The third (_c_), as stated, is the symbol
of the deity and corresponds in the text with the figure of the god in
the pictures. As this deity figure is the only thing found in all of the
representations, we must seek for the explanation of the other two
permanent characters in something else than what is figured.

Comparing the second character (_b_) of each group with that upon which
the god is seated or standing, we find sufficient evidence to satisfy us
that this symbol is the one which is used throughout to indicate this
object. For example, the second symbol in the group on Plate 69 is an
exact copy of the object on which the deity is seated. The same thing is
substantially true of that in the left hand group of Plate 66, the middle
group of 67, and the right hand group of 68.

Assuming, on account of the remarkable regularity of this series and the
fact that the deity is in each case seated or standing on something, that
this rule holds good throughout, we have a clew to those corresponding
symbols which are not simple copies of the things they are used to
indicate.

Turning to Fig. 378, we observe in the right hand department the marks of
footsteps under the deity and the character shown in the margin (No. 20)
as the second of the group above the deity. It is worthy of notice that
in the two we find precisely Landa's two char