It was one of those domestic thorns which fester and hamper, but to which the very best of men have to submit.

He could only send pleasant and affectionate messages by Rachela, knowing that Rachela would deliver them with her own modifications of tone and manner.
"The Senor sends his great love to the Senora.

Grace of Mary! If he would do a little as the most wise and tender of spouses wishes him! That would be for the good fortune of every one.
"Ah, Rachela, my heart is broken! Bring me my mantilla.

I will go to early mass, when one's husband and children forsake them, who, then, is possible but the Holy Mother?
"My Senora, you will take cold; the morning is chill; besides, I have to say the streets will be full of those insolent Americans." "I shall be glad to take cold, perhaps even to die.

And the Americans do not offend women.