The towns would have schools without costing the government a cuarto." "That's easy," observed the secretary sarcastically.

"Compel the towns to construct them at their own expense," whereupon all laughed.
"No, sir! No, sir!" cried the exasperated Don Custodio, turning very red.

"The buildings are already constructed and only wait to be utilized.

Hygienic, unsurpassable, spacious--" The friars looked at one another uneasily.

Would Don Custodio propose that the churches and conventos be converted into schoolhouses?
"Let's hear it," said the General with a frown.
"Well, General, it's very simple," replied Don Custodio, drawing himself up and assuming his hollow voice of ceremony.