Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/233

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 Adage respecting Americans.—Various effects of intercommunication.—Suspicious character of the Mexicans.—Commercial policy.—Restrictions and duties.—Taxation.—Consequences of exclusiveness.—Productions of the country.—Agricultural implements.—Habits of trading.—Changes in manners.—Education.—Anecdote of a travelling pedlar.—Mexican impressions of the American army.—Generals Scott and Taylor.

was a superstition extant until lately, in Mexico, to the effect that, "whenever a party of Americans entered the country, they were sure to bring the wet season with them!" This prejudice, however, like many others of a more serious nature, appears to be passing rapidly away.

It is interesting to note the effect which the entrance of the Americans has produced upon the junior republic, in various respects: upon the habits of the inhabitants, on their opinions and prejudices, on their commodities and modes