Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/199

Rh him describe the miraculous escapes and feats of bravery in which he had figured, was truly astounding. I could not but observe, however, that his fellow-traveller Stiazza leered upon him from time to time out of his solitary eye, with evident incredulity and secret contempt.

Two other sportsmen followed after, with lean and hungry faces, and awfully expressive features. They were miserably destitute; and the expedition was of moment to them, as they had left their families behind almost in a state of starvation. Their ragged clothing and emaciated visages, spoke volumes for the precarious and indolent life it was their choice to lead.

I loitered behind with the three remaining, who happened to be by several shades more "respectable" than the foregoing; and had, like myself, joined the party for no other purpose than amusement. They were armed with two guns, and one machine with a number of barrels; and were dressed, like me, in loose serapés, and leathern high boots and inexpressibles. I was, moreover, content with a common fowling-piece.

We travelled on in amiable companionship