In Old Mexico 145 



around them. The quartette presented an 

 interesting subject to commemorate, and the 

 kodak-artist stood gazing at them longing 

 for a snap and wondering whether they would 

 stand fire or not. While thus facing the 

 question doubtfully, the artist beheld a typical 

 American cow-puncher standing by his side. 



The following dialogue ensued: 



Artist. "You speak English?" 



Cowboy. " You bet." 



A. "I would like to take that picture." 



C. " Take it." 



The artist thereupon proceeded with his 

 kodak to snap the desired picture, when one 

 of the Mexicans, noticing the act, jumped up 

 and at once started toward the artist in a 

 threatening manner, talking Spanish as he 

 advanced. The cowboy stepped promptly 

 between, and following some words in Span- 

 ish both reached for their guns at the same 

 time; but the Yankee was too quick for 

 the copper-colored gentleman, securing the 

 drop, and in language more forcible than 

 elegant commanded, "Hands up or out goes 

 your light." Immediately followed hands- 



