Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/273

Rh There! Now thank your stars you have got off so easily—and beware!"

The poor, plundered youth turned, with a sinking heart, to retrace his steps to his native village; bemoaning his ruined hopes, and heartily regretting that he had left his home with such a companion.

He had not proceeded far before he unwittingly turned to take a last look in the direction of the city; and as he did so he felt a sudden chill creep over him, as if in apprehension of impending danger. He looked up at the sky above him—it had become bright and tranquil; then at the earth at his feet: it was true he was upon the narrow pass; but then he clung closely to the rocks on his side, and thought he had nothing to fear on that account. Just at this instant, the scoundrel Sanchez, his old companion, also turned; and seeing that his victim hesitated and looked back, he raised his hand with a threatening movement, hastily advancing a few steps and shouting.

This action, and the apprehension it excited proved too much for the young Indian's presence of mind; he quitted his hold upon the rock; and began to fly from his fancied pursuer—his foot slipped—he fell over the precipice—