There was a wonderful gentleness in his ways that contrasted widely with her father's despotic manner and harsh tone when he gave orders.

Mendoza believed himself the type and model of a soldier and a gentleman, and he maintained that without rigid discipline there could be no order and no safety at home or in the army.

But between him and Don John there was all the difference that separates the born leader of men from the mere martinet.
Dolores listened.

It was clear that Don John was not going to send Fadrique away in order to see her again before he went down to the throne room, though she had almost hoped he might.
On the contrary, some one else came.

She heard Fadrique announce him.
"The Captain Don Juan de Escobedo is in waiting, your Highness," said the servant.