44 



MODE OF TRAVELLING. 



ler returns however, when we were ready to start, 

 one of them found out that the loaves and fishes, 

 the canteen, &c., were all left out (whether by 

 accident or design, it matters not), and they then 

 all cheerfully consented to " rough it," which is 

 really the only way to travel without vexation in 

 any country. We took some brandy and tea with 

 us, but so destitute were we of other luxuries, that 

 the first day we had nothing to drink our tea out 

 of but egg-shells. 



As it had been reported to the government of 

 Buenos-Ayres, that the Pampa Indians had in- 

 vaded the country through which we had to pass, 

 the minister was kind enough to give me an order 

 to a Commandant who was on the road with troops, 

 for assistance if required ; and besides this, we 

 purchased a dozen muskets, some pistols, and 

 sabres, which were slung to the roof of the car- 

 riage. 



As it is customary to pay the peons half their 

 money in advance, and as men who have been paid 

 in advance have in all countries a number of 

 thirsty friends, it is very difficult to collect all the 

 drivers. Ours were of all colours, black, white. 



