In Old California 28

And Margarita holds her mother's sleeve as she's lead toward the waiting surrey ride. El Segundo with reins of bays doth weave to find a space at colonnade's near side. "I've never seen him misbehave, Segundo. Are you sure about this thing?" "I don't use a tight rein, Patron." Don Hernandez became indignant. "Nor do I, Diego Silva. If you're worried---." "I didn't mean any disrespect, Alcalde. Please forgive me. I'm deeply honored your Excellency's chosen my Bravo to ride." "I'll take care of your animal, Diego Silva. Don't think he'll be arrogantly abused." "Your Excellency," Don Huerra spoke for his foreman, "Segundo's only thinking of your safety. He didn't mean you ride with a high hand. Please Sir, ride my horse. I can tell you with absolute assurance he'll give you no trouble." Dona Rose had enough of such talk. She swung her green taffeta skirt out of the way preparing to step up into the surrey. "Oh, get on him Jose," she said agitatedly. "Let's go home. Do you want us all to get soaking wet? It's foolishness you want to go to the harbor on such a day as this. No doubt you'll ruin your best suit. Let's get on with it!" Don Huerra quickly helped obese lady into the carriage. He moved to help Margarita. She gave her hand to her father. "I don't worry for you, father," she said stepping lightly up. "Ride Bravo. It'll show people I have a real vaquero for a father." Don Jose smiled at daughter in affection. "You understand me very well, Margarita. I know my brother envies me for having such a daughter as you." Quietly she spoke to her father so that no one could hear. "My Uncle Miquel loves me too, father. But I don't think mother does. She shouldn't have sent me away. Promise me if things don't go right at Peralta that I can live with Uncle Miquel." "I know there are differences between you and your mother, Margarita. If it comes to that and Miquel is willing, I'm willing." Margarita threw her arms around her father's neck. She kissed in on the cheek, whispering in his ear, " my uncle's not the only one I love."