"Santas tardes!" the new comer went on.
"Dios les da a Vm buenas!" the other immediately answered.
These necessary formulas of every meeting exhausted, the ice was broken, and the acquaintance made.
"Dismount, Caballero," the dragoon said; "the heat is stifling on the prairie; I have here a famous shade, and in this little pot cecina, with red harico beans and pimento, which I think you will like, if you do me the honour to share my repast."
"I readily accept your flattering invitation, Caballero," the American answered with a smile; "the more readily because I confess to you that I am literally starving, and, moreover, exhausted with fatigue."
"Caray! In that case I congratulate myself on the fortunate accident that occasions our meeting, so pray dismount without further delay."
"I am going to do so."
The American at once got off his horse, removed the bit, and the noble animal immediately joined its companion, while its master fell to the ground by the dragoon's side, with a sigh of satisfaction.
"You seem to have made a long ride, Caballero?" the soldier said.
"Yes," the American answered, "I have been on horseback for ten hours, not to mention that I spent the morning in fighting."