It is his wish that you join him now." "Say to my father that his wish is my law," quavered the terrified girl.
Five minutes later Francesca went timidly up to her father in the gardens before the house.
Don Luis turned to her.

He was thinking, at the moment, of his dark plans regarding the young engineers.

In his eyes, despite his effort to smile on his daughter, was a deadly glitter that dried up hope in the heart of the daughter.
"You have been secluding yourself more than usual to-day, _chiquita_," chided Montez.
That word _chiquita_, meaning "pet," caused the girl to recoil inwardly.

Could it be that this hard, cruel man had the right to address her in endearing terms?
"I am not well to-day, my father," she answered, in a low voice.
"Then take my arm, _chiquita_, and walk with me," urged Montez.
"My father," she cried, shrinking back, "if you will indulge me, I will walk alone.

Perhaps, in that way, I shall gain more strength from the exercise." "As you will," smiled Don Luis, coldly.