LA MULATA 257 



waters, we had some apprehension lest we miss 

 our mark. Taking a course outside the Alacranes 

 Keys we continued until the last one was passed 

 and then turned directly in toward the mainland 

 coast. Here we discovered a wide open bay of 

 deep water, with shores wooded to the edge but 

 with no sign of habitations. Skirting the circular 

 shore line to locate any evidences of an opening 

 into the forest we finally decided upon landing for 

 a reconnaissance where some rocks projected into 

 the bay. Here, to our delight, we discovered a 

 path leading back through a semi-open country 

 with patches of timber. Following this for about 

 a half-mile we suddenly came upon a tienda, or 

 little country store, of the most primitive kind. 

 It was the only habitation in sight in the midst of 

 a fine-looking country. The keeper of the tienda 

 is a large, efficient -looking man of few words. He 

 looked us over in solemn silence and appeared to 

 gather an unfavorable impression. When we had 

 explained our raison d'Ure and our aspirations for 

 Guajaibon, he decided, though apparently against 

 his better judgment, to have dealings with us and 

 even to aid and abet us in the accomplishment of 

 our object. Accordingly we were promised nour- 

 17 



