It is lamentable to hear how many lives are lost in trifling quarrels.

In fighting, each party tries to mark the face of his adversary by slashing his nose or eyes; as is often attested by deep and horrid-looking scars.

Robberies are a natural consequence of universal gambling, much drinking, and extreme indolence.

At Mercedes I asked two men why they did not work.

One gravely said the days were too long; the other that he was too poor.