A YOUNG NATURALIST. 223 



Of course, I'Encuerado, always the most extravagant in its use, 

 was perfectly delighted to see our stock of ammunition trebled. 



We had scarcely finished our dinner, when we heard the sound 

 of a guitar : the Mistec, after having preached, had succeeded in 

 convincing his congregation that a dance was the proper method 

 of winding-up the day. The space in front of the patriarch's 

 dwelling having been swept, and two crackling fires lighted, ere- 

 long the women made their appearance, in what they considered 

 full dress, and their hair loaded with flowers. The national air 

 of the Jarabe was played, and the dancers trod the measure with 

 energy. Lucien, who had joined the crowd, wanted to teach 

 the polka and waltz to the Indian children. Sumichrast stood 

 by, laughing most heartily ; but his merriment increased on 

 seeing I'Encuerado's gambols, for never before had such won- 

 derful capers been cut. He sang, strummed on his guitar, and 

 danced — often doing all three at the same time. About ten o'clock, 

 Lucien retired to rest. The fatigues of the day, in spite of the 

 noise of the guitar and the songs, soon sent him to sleep. 



At a proper hour, I desired every one to go home. They 

 kissed my hands, some even embraced me, and obeyed, so silence 

 once more reigned in the little valley. Before my going to sleep, 

 I'Encuerado was already snoring with his head on Gringalet's 

 back. 



