La Palm- I meet the Devil

La Palma:  I arrive at 7 am to discover that my transfer buss does not connect until 11:30 am.  In truth, I had only a vague idea of my next destination... Drake Bay to Northern entry of Corcavado?... Organic Farming on Casa Pequena??... I think Ok, just go... let the adventure guide your path.  As I sit in this sad little town, La Palma, workers passing with grim expressions, I notice many eyes resting desire on me.... Yep, gringa traveler with expensive gear (probably a camera, computer,electronic jackpot) The women fake smiles at me, darting their eyes at my backpack... Its clear "is she weak, strong, accessable?"... Alas, a drunkard with several fingers missing and fresh wounds to boast approaches me.  I practice my spanish as he feigns friendliness and common decency... I am stuck in this tiny rural town.  Manuel, missing fingers and teeth, assaults me with false friendship for about 4 hours.  Other towns peaople gently warn that he is bad.  I smile and I know....  Finally the bus comes. I think "phew, am I in the clear?"  I jump on the RV style bus (the young driver is holding his baby while driving).  We wait 5 minnutes and are leaving as Manuel, the devil, gets on.  OH FUCK, I think.  Then realize he has a friend already on the bus... Double Fuck!!  We depart, heading deeper and deeper into country and jungle wilderness.  He pretends further frindship and I get flustered.  I am heated and I let him know I am willing to deffend myself with any fiercness I hold.  My eyes speak my intention.  His tone changes, he comprehends that stealing my belongings or harming me is not a wise choice.  He and his friends talk through glances and huffy breathing...  He changes tactics and begins to harrass me, I do not understand the language and it becomes a huge joke that some passengers also find funny.  Cruel. I hear the words "Hippy" spoken in disgust.... I do not understand the language.  After 2 and a half hours I inform the driver of my dilema.  He asserts authority over the situation but I am sickened and in fear.  Finally, the ´joke´is played out and Manuel and associate depart the bus.  I am rattled... 6 hours of Manuel.  Finally clear, my journey is only just begun.....  But I passed the 1st test. Note: The jungle is demanding and dangerous, be smart...... next: Drake Bay