I was more than ever
astonished at his replying:
"Como no? Senor" "Why not, sir?"
"When starting, next morning, I was frequently warned that the river was
very bad; but could get no information of any consequence, except that
it wound through many canyons. The whole town turned out to see me off
and as I was feeling very much refreshed, I was soon ready. Going to the
bank, what was my astonishment to see all those gentle murderers
standing in a row with carbineros on either side, guarding them. One of
the brigands, the spokesman of the day before, stepped forward and
addressed me thus.
"'Illustrious Captain. We would like much to form your escort down the
river as a protection against the lawless characters which we are aware
infest the mountains below; but being detained here against our will, we
are unable to offer you that homage. But as a mark of our pure regard,
on behalf of myself and worthy companions, I present you with this
purse, a specimen of our own handicraft and may you never lack means to
keep it full.'
"The purse was a long, knit affair in colored yarns, looking like an
old fashioned necktie. I thanked them and regretted the cruel
circumstances which prevented their accompanying me, while secretly
rejoicing that such a disreputable looking set of villains was
closely guarded.
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