"Is this your first visit to these parts?"
"To this locality, yes; to the mountains, no. For several years I have made occasional incursions to the district in pursuit of that charm which sometimes leads the best of men—as in your own case—to choose for a home the most solitary scenes," replied the Tezcucan.
"A wonderful fascination, truly, is found in the life we lead, or how could we endure its solitude?" answered the mountaineer reflectively; and again, "You are not one who hunts for profit, I judge?" he added, interrogatively.
"No, for pleasure only; still I sometimes sell, or permit my men to do so, when we secure more game than we want."
"You are not alone, then?"
"No; I have two attendants who are being cared for by your servants. Your good wife has already looked after their comforts."
"And, be assured, O Tezcucan, that they will suffer no discomfort while under her care," returned Tezcot, showing his appreciation of his wife's excellence. He then added: "Referring to them, by the way, reminds me that others are needing refreshment. Zoei!" he called.
"Well, Tezcot, what is it?" came back from within.
"My jacket hangs limp as a dead hare's leg. Haven't ye something to put under it, eh?"
"Yes, supper is ready. Bring our guest and come."