He saw that the patio was faced on three sides by piazzas or porticos, from which wide doors opened into the house.

He heard the music now as clearly as if it were at his side.

It was the music of a full band, and it was played with a mellow, gliding rhythm.

He saw, also, officers in brilliant uniform and handsome women, as in the dance they passed and repassed the open doors.
It was Spanish, Mexican to the core, full of the South, full of warmth and color.

The lean, brown Texans crouching in the shrubbery furnished a striking contrast.
While they waited, several officers and ladies came out on the piazzas, ate ices and drank sweet drinks.