Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/70

44 found upon him; yet he persists in asserting his innocence. Throwing himself doggedly on the ground, he refuses to move on any terms, by turns threatening and imploring his resolute captors; but he is compelled to rise, and with a shout of execration, is dragged by main force out into the street.

He is no sooner there, however, than a sympathizing group of léperos, with a few adherents of his own "profession," make a rush to his assistance. For a moment his escape seems certain; but his guardians, among whom are a few police officers, cling to him with wonderful tenacity. A conflict ensues; blows and cuffs are exchanged; muttered curses and cries of agony are intermingled; several of the bystanders are thrown down and wounded; the vociferations increase, and the embroglio becomes general. In the confusion, the scoundrel who has occasioned it throws off the hold of his captors by a vigorous movement, and darts with incredible swiftness through an opening made for him in the crowd.

In the mean time, more police officers and a few soldiers have arrived on the scene, and a pursuit is instantly set on foot; some of the