190 SIX MONTHS IN MEXICO. 



and the shouts of the people, announced the 

 approach of the general and his friends, 

 preceded by an extensive band of native 

 musicians, and a troop — not of soldiers, but 

 of Indian girls, handsomely dressed, strewing 

 flowers, waving banners, and shaking a sort 

 of rattle, similar to those used by the Indians 

 of St. Miguel de las Ranchos in their noc- 

 turnal dances. The general was hailed by 

 the populace with marks of genuine love; 

 and many to whom he was personally known 

 shed tears of joy. I had been introduced to 

 him a few evenings before ; he recognised me, 

 and a few minutes after sent for me to partake 

 of the refreshment prepared for him. He 

 seated me near him, served me himself, and I 

 never felt more honoured than on this occasion. 

 Being the only Englishman present, I con- 

 sidered it a tribute rather paid to my country 

 than to myself. Whilst at table, despatches 

 arrived from Mexico for the general, and he 

 retired to examine the contents ; and, shortly 



