Augustus could just make out the snake, coiled in a corner, but decided not to shoot it; on a quiet spring evening in Lonesome Dove, a shot could cause complications. Everybody in town would hear it and conclude either that the Comanches were down from the plains or the Mexicans up from the river. If any of the customers of the Dry Bean, the town's one saloon, happened to be drunk or unhappy-which was very likely-they would probably run out into the street and shoot a Mexican or two, just to be on the safe side.
Augustus notices a snake hiding in the corner but opts against shooting it, recognizing the potential chaos a gunshot could trigger in Lonesome Dove. He's aware that on a tranquil spring evening, such a sound would draw immediate attention, causing concern that either the Comanches or Mexicans were nearby, prompting residents to panic.
The risk of provoking violence among the townspeople at the Dry Bean saloon is significant, as intoxicated or disgruntled patrons might react impulsively. Augustus's decision reflects his understanding of the delicate balance in their community and the unpredictable nature of its members when faced with perceived threats.
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