The band stood around us in a semi-circle, chiefly notable for its unsteadiness on its legs, and regaled us with a series of most doleful pieces.

When word came that dinner was ready at the _curato_, the band accompanied us to our stopping-place.

The bandmaster announced his intention of personally serving us at the table.

At the same time orders were given that the musicians, standing without, should continue to play pieces throughout the repast.
[Illustration:] [Illustration:] The last day of our stay at Tilantongo, the _padre_ stated that it must be interesting to see the way in which a parish priest, returning from a visit to a neighboring town, is received by his parish.

Accordingly, he planned that a picture should be taken of himself on horseback, with all the people gathered around welcoming him.