When I will,
every stable-door shall be unlocked. You shall have the horses, and
more, if you choose, in the stated time."
"One moment, Senor Pedro; I want something else from you, and you,
senora."
They looked at him with well-disguised astonishment.
"I have long loved your niece; will you give her to me in marriage?"
"Oh! sir, it is too great an honour for our house. We--she--are all
unworthy. But if you insist, and are prepared to take her as she is,
dowerless, uncultured, with only her natural gifts, she is yours."
"I want only herself. I have sufficient means for both. They may still
be modest, but I have good prospects--the very best. Some day I shall
inherit a great fortune."
"Oh! sir, you overwhelm us. We can make you no sufficient return for
your great condescension. Only command us, and we will faithfully
execute your wishes."
"My only desire is that you should treat Mariquita well. Take every
care of her until I can return. It will not be long, I trust, before
this war is ended, and then I will make her my wife."
McKay's last words were overheard by a man who at this moment entered
the shop.
It was Benito, who advanced with flaming face and fierce, angry eyes
towards the group at the counter.
"What is this--and your promise to me? The girl is mine; you gave her
to me months ago.
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