José — page 49: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

49 JOSE. selor,” said the German, thoughtfully; “but from what I have heard, the modern Indians are very unlike the noble savages of Cooper’s novels; most of them understand some English or Spanish, have acquired some of the traits of civilized society——” “And have in consequence grown meaner and more dangerous,” Green interrupted, leaping to his feet and rubbing his brow. “I am taking a respon- sibility upon myself for which I was not prepared. Our wagons carry two hundred thousand pounds of costly freight, and I have the responsibility of their safe-keeping !” He crossed the floor in rapid strides, when sud- denly a knock at the door interrupted him. At his invitation the door opened, and in stepped Dutch Bill with a singular mixture of self-consciousness and polite reserve, leading the young Mexican by one hand. “IT came merely to inquire if Mr. Green has personally taken charge of the wagon-boss’ office,” he began, removing his hat with a slow gesture and looking from one to the other. “My name is Green,” said the young merchant, looking up in faint sala at the weather-beaten freighter. “And I’m Dutch Bill, sir, known wherever a wagon trail crosses the plains, now driver of the leading team in your train,” was the reply, and no minister plenipotentiary of a powerful prince could have introduced himself with a show of more ex- alted importance. “Glad to know you, Mr. Bill or whatever your other name may be,” said Green, holding out his hand to him with a smile, “You asked for the wagon-boss,” Eomicbooks Go