"Mexican homes as a rule are closed off to the world by high blank walls of yellowish masonry, topped with broken glass to discourage escaladores, or climbing burglars. The gardens and fountains and other delights are hidden, as in an Arab city."
Charles Portis was an American novelist known for satirical and adventure fiction. He is best known for True Grit, which was adapted into major films. Portis is regarded as a distinctive voice in modern American literature.