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SARCOPHAGE OF FERDINAND AND ISABELLA Photograph by Harlow D. Higinbotham
thrusts are made; the sword may strike a bone and break; the onslaught of the bull may not be of sufficient speed and force to drive the blade in deep enough; or, the sword may enter to the very hilt without fatal effect, its point not having reached a vital spot. In cases such as these the diestro must recommence his play, draw out the sword, or with a second one attempt to save his reputation. Of the three dozen bulls which I saw slain in Spain, but six were properly dispatched. Many died only after receiving repeated thrusts; others, falling from exhaustion, were turned over to the attendants who, with their small and murderous knives, ended the tragedy ingloriously. The rare successful stroke is, however, the signal for an ovation; hats, caps, cigars, and flowers are showered upon the smiling victor as he makes his usual
