The whole neighbourhood abounds in fruit, and its name _Cacahuamilpan_ means "the plantation of _cacahuate_ nuts." It soon became evident that the Alcalde was keeping us waiting as a matter of dignity, and to show that, though the white men might be held in great estimation elsewhere, they did not think so much of them in this free and independent village.

At last a man came to summon us to a solemn audience.

In a hut of canes, the Alcalde, a little lame Indian, was sitting on a mat spread on the ground in the middle, with his escribano or secretary at his left hand.

Other Indians were standing outside at the door.

The little man scarcely condescended to take any notice of us when we saluted him, but sat bolt upright, positively bursting with suppressed dignity, and the escribano inquired in a loud voice what our business was.