She was an Indian woman, and used to dangers, such as would terrify the females that live in great cities.
"One day when her husband was absent as usual, looking after his cattle, this woman took some clothes to the river bank for the purpose of washing them.

The river was the only water near the rancho; and by thus carrying the clothes to it, she saved herself the trouble of fetching the water a good way; besides, there was a broad, smooth stone by the bank, where she was accustomed to beat out her linen.

Her little daughter accompanied her, carrying one of the bundles.
"On reaching the spot, the woman filled her vessels with water, and commenced her work; while the child, having nothing else to occupy her, began to gather some ripe guavas, plucking them from a tree that grew out from the bank, and hung somewhat over the river.

While the Indian mother was thus engaged, she was startled by a wild scream and a plunge, that were heard almost together; and, on looking round, she saw her child just sinking in the water.

At the same time, she beheld a hideous object--a huge caiman--making for the spot! Filled with horror, the woman dropped her linen, and rushed out upon the bank.