Page:Vol 4 History of Mexico by H H Bancroft.djvu/189

Rh among the natives once gratified was not easily controlled. Next day several Spanish houses were assaulted and sacked. Hard as it was to learn, a lesson of discipline must be given. Allende opened fire on his men. Several were killed and wounded; the crowds dispersed and the disorder was stopped. It had hardly ceased, however, before a more serious trouble occurred. The Indians, accustomed to simple diet, had given themselves up to gluttony and drunkenness, gorging themselves with sweetmeats and fruits, and pouring down spirituous liquors like water. The consequence was that a deadly sickness broke out, carrying off many in a few hours. The cry was raised that the aguardiente had been poisoned. Allende, by his presence of mind, however, suppressed the tumult. Drinking in the presence of the multitude a cup of the condemned liquor, he proved to the Indians that their fears were groundless.

At Valladolid Hidalgo's force was increased by the important addition of well armed and well disciplined troops. They consisted of the regiment of provincial infantry, the regiment of the Michoacan dragoons, more generally known by the name of the Pátzcuaro regiment, and eight companies of recruits lately raised and equipped by the bishop and chapter. Additional cannon were also added to his artillery, a means of warfare which the first leaders of the revolution regarded with too high an estimation, directing their principal attention to the casting of as many and as large pieces as possible. Experience taught them their mistake; for to unskilled gunners artillery was of little service.

Having concluded his military preparations, and placed José María Anzorena at the head of the