CHAPTER V.A FAMOUS BARBECUE.
"So when fierce zeal a nation rends, And stern injustice rules the throne, Beneath the yoke meek virtue bends, And modest truth is heard to groan.
But when fair Freedom's star appears, Then hushed are sighs, and calmed are fears.
And who, when nations long opprest, Decree to curb the oppressor's pride, And patriot virtues fire the breast, Who shall the generous ardor chide?
What shall withstand the great decree, When a brave nation will be free?
It is flesh and blood that makes husbands and wives, fathers and children, and for the next few days these ties were sorely wounded in Robert Worth's house.

The Senora was what Rachela called "difficult." In reality, she was angry and sullen.

At such times she always went early to mass, said many prayers, and still further irritated herself by unnecessary fasting.

But there are few homes which totally escape the visitations of this 'pious temper' in some form or other.

And no creed modifies it; the strict Calvinist and strict Catholic are equally disagreeable while under its influence.
Besides, the Senora, like the ill-tempered prophet, thought she "did well to be angry." She imagined herself deserted and betrayed in all her tenderest feelings, her husband a rebel, her home made desolate, her sons and daughters supporting their father's imprudent views.