Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 1.djvu/80

54 to survey a tithe of the scenes of operations; they are, moreover, so dishonest in principle, and so negligent in the discharge of their duty, that it is very doubtful if any benefit would accrue to the State from their exertions, were the members of the corps to be multiplied tenfold. A few partial and feeble attempts have been made to check the progress of the illicit proceedings of contrabandists; but their suppression, or even a check to their continuance, appears to become still more improbable from year to year.

The aguadores, or water-carriers, are among the most conspicuous objects in the streets. They may be constantly seen in their round jacetis, or short blankets, and torn pantaloons, driving laden asses or mules, or carrying jars of spring water, either in their hands, or on their heads, from house to house; cheerfully carolling the while, or expatiating upon the freshness and coolness of their saleable beverage.

It is usual for the postilions belonging to the best houses to be continually on the alert, and in attendance with the carriages and horses ready prepared in the court-yards at a moment's notice. Some of these