Your baggage is in the next room, and while you make your preparations, I will see to the saddling of the horses." A very few minutes sufficed to put on my riding boots, get my pistols, and make up my scanty kit.

When I went outside, the horses were waiting in the _patio_, each of them held by a black groom.

Everything was in order.

A _cobija_ was strapped behind either saddle, both of which were furnished with holsters and bags.
"I have had some _tasajo_ (dried beef) put in the saddle-bags, as much as will keep you going three or four days," said Senor Carera.

"You won't find many hotels on the road.