Page:Vol 3 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/266

246 that the native ward of Santiago Tlaltelulco was deserted. The most active measures were therefore taken to prevent another uprising, and for the arrest and punishment of the rioters, and the recovery of the stolen property. Orders were issued for the immediate enrolment of all citizens. Several companies of infantry and cavalry were organized, two of the latter at the expense of the royal treasury. For several days the troops patrolled the streets; and, although save a few false alarms everything remained quiet, the stores and schools continued closed, and for three days no church bells were rung nor service held. The saramullos were to be feared, however, no less than the natives, and their contempt for the authorities was expressed by posting, during the night, in conspicuous places, pasquinades ridiculing them for their want of courage and energy.

Great care was now taken that the supply of grain should not fail; and although for a time there was occasional evidence of scarcity, within two months the weight of bread, which a short time before the beginning of the riot had been reduced to seven ounces, was increased first to ten and finally to fourteen ounces.