would be a gross
insult to say that a lady was younger than was indicated by the last
decoration which she had received; and even the five successive years
are marked by five small appendages, one of which is added each year, so
that she may not lose even one of the years to which she is entitled.

Amongst other marks of respect shown to age--a younger woman, passing
her senior in years, is expected to give her the inner side of the path,
and to salute her in passing.

No mistake can be made as to the particular nature of the decoration,
and consequently of the number of years to which the lady is entitled.
Each of the numerous decorations differs entirely from the others. A
decoration called the "Matterode," consists of the model of a very
beautiful bird, that has the peculiarity of always looking upwards, as
though its thoughts were borne to the celestial stars. The wings of this
bird,--from which the Order derives its name,--are fixed in a peculiar
way, and move in graceful motion, so as to suggest the movement of an
angel's wings.

The plumage of the Matterode is as though it were studded with precious
stones; so bright are the dots all over the body and the wings.

The decoration is of exquisite workmanship, and made of our choicest
metals, varied in colour, and set with precious stones, to imitate the
bird's plumage.

This decoration is presented to a lady who, having by her conduct and
years earned successive decorations, has passed the last five years
unexceptionally and uprightly in all things, and has, besides, shown
intelligence of a high grade.

If, during the five years succeeding that in which she won the
"Matterode," this lady remains unaltered in greatness and goodness, she
is entitled, in addition, to a decoration of considerable value, in
which the "Mountain Supporter"--which gives its name to the Order, is
faithfully copied in the purest and most beautiful metals. And as the
"Matterode" is an intimation that the beauty of the wearer's actions
justifies her in looking upwards to a future home in the celestial
stars, so does the Mountain Supporter indicate her firmness, power, and
strength, that nothing in Montalluyah can surpass.

When either of these decorations is worn, the greatest honour and
respect are paid to the wearer. All know that none can possess it
without having gained it by sterling merit and goodness of the highest
order. The checks used in our system are of such a nature, that