The passionate love with which the Nahuas cultivated song, music and the dance is a subject of frequent comment by the historians of Mexico. These arts are invariably mentioned as prominent features of the aboriginal civilization no pub lic ceremony was complete without them; they were indis pensable in the religious services held in the temples; through their assistance the sacred and historical traditions were pre served; and the entertainments Of individuals received their chief lustre and charm from their association with these arts.