The church-bell was rung and the people flocked out into the street.

The shock passed at exactly 5:20, and, in other towns, notably in Oaxaca, it did considerable damage.
Two days before, we had sent word to the authorities at Cuquila, that we should breakfast with them on our way back to Tlaxiaco, and ordered them to be ready for our coming.

This was the opportunity which had been promised them for redeeming themselves and avoiding complaint to their _jefe_.

Arriving at the town at 9:40, we were met at the roadside by some of the officials, who led us at once to the town-house.

Here the whole town government was gathered to greet us; politely each one, stepping forward, removed his hat and kissed my hand; they then invited us to sit down at the table and breakfast,--whereupon eggs, chicken, _tortillas_ and _frijoles_--the best the town could supply--were set before us.