For it is no idle tale of the alcalde, believe me.

I see it all! It is true!" "Then thou wilt let him take me away," exclaimed the girl bitterly, withdrawing the little hand he had clasped in his excitement.
"Alas, Juanita, what avails it now?
I am sent to San Jose, charged with a letter to the Father Superior, who will give me further orders.

What they are, or how long I must stay, I know not.

But I know this: the good Father Pedro's eyes were troubled when he gave me his blessing, and he held me long in his embrace.

Pray Heaven I have committed no fault.
Still it may be that the reputation of my gift hath reached the Father Superior, and he would advance me." And Francisco's eyes lit up with youthful pride at the thought.
Not so Juanita.