In Old California 18

Of Laurius' Rancho San Luis Ore, a distant place, Don Jose now spoke. "Margarita now speaks of traveling to Luis Ore tomorrow, Don Huerra." "Is that true? it seems I've arrived at a most auspicious time. Perhaps you'll allow me to give escort? it's been sometime since I've seen your brother and there's matter of some business between us to settle." "Roads are none too safe, senor, and your offer's much appreciated." "Then it's agreed! It's my pleasure to be of service to you and your family." Margarita didn't like idea. She was enduring Don Huerra's presence out of respect for mother and father, but inclusion in entourage unbearable. He was wrinkled , hairless, and older than her own father. She didn't like foreman either. He coudn't be a good man because he'd brought a gun into the church.Gun was in a black holster strapped to his left side; many bullets filled places in belt around his waist. Gun was an evil sight, something only a very bad man would think of bringing into the church. "My children," Father Saez spoke again to the assembly. "Brother Dominque's prepared cheese and milk. Because there's so many of us, please suffer inconvenience of using earthenware cups. These cups have been made by indians and serve us vey well. They're no different from any used in your homes. If they don't please you, I'm sorry. They'll all we have. Then too, storm's lessening and I think it'll be possible for you to leave soon." "I don't drink from 'peon' cups, Jose." Don Hernandez considered wife; he stroked white goatee in mild agitation.