Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/119

Rh Behold the boor as he breathes heavily and sonorously upon the ground! Every limb seems relaxed with laziness; his hands are partly closed—for it would be labour to hold the fingers extended; his knees are turned to rest upon the earth—for to bear their own weight would be impossible; his mouth hangs open—for it would require exertion to keep it closed and at present it assists his breathing. His eyes are shut—except the business one, which half opens with difficulty from time to time. His head bushy with thick masses of tangled hair, is bowed upon his breast; his hat is placed forward on his forehead; his serapé is folded beneath his head; his pantaloons are unbuttoned at the waist; and his boots are almost off—for the confinement of clothing would interfere with his ease and enjoyment.

It required the application of the whip this morning at the hacienda, to rouse him from his nightly slumbers, and it is only the fear of the whip that induces him to bear an eye to his important duties at present. The whip darkens the quiet sunshine of his existence always; for without that, his portion in the world would be too blissful for humanity. He is not incapable of exertion, however; but the