Luckily, however, he was stupid enough not to put the money in his pocket, but kept it open in his hand.

I quickly snatched a coin from him, and put it into my pocket, explaining to him at the same time that he should not have it back until he had given me my change, adding that I would give the men a gratuity myself.

He shouted and stormed, and kept on asking for the money.
I took no heed of him, but continued quietly packing up my things.
Seeing, at length, that nothing was to be done with me, he gave me back my half-dollar; whereupon we parted good friends.

This affair concluded, I had to look about for a couple of asses; one for myself, and another for my luggage.

If I had stepped ashore I should have been almost torn in pieces by contending donkey-drivers, each of whom would have lugged me in a different direction.