"Um-m--not altogether. But, all the same, I think it is time we
were going home."
"This is home, for me, Dolores."
"Yes, but now that war--"
"There isn't any war, and there won't be any. However, if you are
nervous I'll send you back to Las Palmas at once."
"Glory of God! It would be the end of me. These Mexicans would
recognize me instantly as an American, for I have the appearance
and the culture. You can imagine what would happen to me. They
would tear me from the train. It was nothing except General
Longorio's soldiers that brought us safely through from Nuevo
Pueblo."
"Then I'm glad that he insisted upon sending them with us. Now
tell the ranch-hands to put no faith in these ridiculous stories.
If they wish the truth let them ask General Longorio; he will be
here today and quiet their fears."
"You think he intends to pay us for our cattle?"
"Yes."
Dolores pondered a moment. "Well, perhaps he does--it is not his
money. For that matter, he would give all Mexico if you asked it.
Tse! His love consumes him like a fever."
Alaire stirred uneasily; then she rose and went to an open window,
which looked out into the tiny patio with its trickling fountain
and its rank, untended plants.
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