It was plain that something must be done.

Quitting my work, I sent orders for the _presidente_ to appear, and, after an intolerable delay, he presented himself.

I told him that we were losing time; that subjects were not presenting themselves; that some of those who did present themselves refused to be measured; that I wished a _mozo_ at once to carry a report from me to the _jefe_ that my wishes were not regarded by the authorities, and that his orders had no influence; that the _mozo_ must be ready at once, as there was no time to lose, and we should shortly leave his town without accomplishing our work.

The effect was instantaneous.

The official air of arrogance disappeared; he replied quiet humbly that subjects should be at once supplied, as rapidly as they could be brought in.