Interest?
Do you want the good-will of the authorities--a snug appointment in
the Custom-house, or under the police? They are yours."
"I am your slave; I will do your bidding, and ask nothing in return
but your approval."
"Nothing! You grow singularly self-denying, Senor Benito."
"The senora will really help me?" said Benito, now cringing and
obsequious. "One small favour, then. I am tired of this wandering
life. Here to-day in Cadiz; Ronda, Malaga, to-morrow. At everybody's
beck and call--never my own master, not for an hour. I want to settle
down."
"To marry?" inquired Mrs. Wilders, contemptuously. "In your own
station? That is better."
"I have not forgotten you, senora. But the wound was beginning to
heal--"
She held up her hand with a menacing gesture.
"I will not deny that I have cast my eyes upon a maiden that pleases
me," Benito confessed. "I have known her from childhood. Her friends
approve of my suit, and would accept me; but what lot can I offer a
wife?"
"Well, how is it to be mended?"
"For a small sum--five hundred dollars--I could purchase a share in
these stables."
"You shall have the money at once as a gift."
"I will promise in return never to trouble you again."
"I make no conditions; only I warn you if you ever offend, if you ever
presume--"
"I shall fully merit your displeasure.
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