Thou canst scarcely keep this Captain Carroll any longer at a distance by rattling those bones of Koorotora in his face.

And of a truth, child, since the affair of the letters, and his discreet and honorable conduct since, I see not why thou shouldst.

He has thy mother's reputation in his hands." "He is a gentleman, my mother," said Maruja, quietly.
"And they are scarce, child, and should be rewarded and preserved.

That is what I meant, silly one; this Captain is not rich--but then, thou hast enough for both." "But it was Amita that first brought him here," said Maruja, looking down with an air of embarrassed thoughtfulness, which Dona Maria chose to instantly accept as exaggerated coyness.
"Do not think to deceive me or thyself, child, with this folly.

Thou art old enough to know a man's mind, if not thine own.