Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/69

Rh On the following morning they reached Vera Cruz in safety; and as every member of the party was anxious to take ship immediately—as well to avoid the risk of remaining on that feverish coast as to return to Europe forthwith—they agreed, if possible, to sail all together, in a Spanish vessel then lying in the harbour. The grave man was one of the number, and it was remarked, as the time for embarkation approached, that he was unusually active and business-like in making-his preparations.

The day at last arrived, when the company of merchants were to pass the custom-house with their goods; every man was there with his permit, his bales, his trunks, and his boxes, not excepting Don Surillo himself. The officers, attended by other officials with lances and swords, overhauled the bales and thoroughly ransacked the boxes. The report was made; all was right: there was nothing contraband. They were free of the port, after paying certain duties; and might take possession of their berths in the ship immediately.

Suddenly it was discovered that the grave Don has absented himself, though his goods