Page:Face to Face With the Mexicans.djvu/577

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ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES.
571

courage, they have proved their prowess and valor from first to last. It gives one a feeling of security and satisfaction to see a company of these sturdy horsemen entering a city or town, after a toilsome journey in the wild mountain fastnesses. They wear a gay and picturesque uniform of buckskin, the pantaloons decorated on the outside seams with silver buttons, coat and vest of the same material,

A COMPANY OF RURALES.

a gorgeous red sash, and a red cravat or silk handkerchief around the neck, and sombrero with silver cord and tassels. Behind the gayly-equipped saddle a red blanket is folded and snugly secured, adding an extra charm of color to the invincibles. They come and go as if in haste, the rattling of their accouterments always attracting the attention of strangers.

Land and sea can alike testify to their courage. On January 18th, 1886, the American whaler Ranger ran ashore at Ensenada on the Lower California coast. The crew were swept into the sea, and would