"Tiikerien pyydystäjä" by Mayne Reid is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in Mexico and follows the journey of a young man named Kornelio Lantejas and his encounter with Rafael Tres-Villas, a cavalry officer. The narrative explores themes of danger, survival, and the ominous atmosphere within a desolate landscape filled with abandoned villages and the ever-present threat of jaguars. At the start of the novel, we
are introduced to Kornelio, who is traversing the barren plains of Oaxaca, feeling the weight of solitude and thirst. As he struggles on his slow horse, he discovers deserted settlements that evoke curiosity and fear about the political unrest in the region. He eventually meets Rafael Tres-Villas, who shares concerns about the abandoned areas, speculating whether they are fleeing from political strife. The two characters' interactions delve into their fears, aspirations, and the enigmatic, harsh environment, setting the stage for further adventures against the backdrop of conflict and the threats posed by nature in the form of jaguars. (This is an automatically generated summary.)