And he never blamed her, only he left his high office and turned his back forever on his home." "Ah! the cruel woman.

Holy Virgin, what hard hearts thou hast to pray for!" "Come down and smile upon him, Maria.

I should like him to see a high-born Mexican lady.

Are they not the kindest and fairest among all God's women?
I know, at least, Maria, that you are kind and fair"; and he took her hands, and drew her within his embrace.
What good wife can resist her husband's wooing?
Maria did not.

She lifted her face, her eyes shone through happy tears, she whispered softly: "My Robert, it is a joy to please you.