In Old California 12

Patron's now kind words flooded foreman's brain - such praise from Mayor High, much grandiose! " I'm sorry, Senor Huerra, you couldn't attend the party I gave her last week in her honor. Margarita's been home three weeks." " I was in Santa Barbara, Alcalde, and only arrived back yesterday. As soon as I heard the good news of Margarita's arrival, I came to Peralta as rapidly as possible. I hope you'll forgive any unintentional discourtesy. Missing your party lies heavy on my heart." "Enough said about that, Don Huerra. Will you and your vaquero honor me by dining with us tonight?" "It would be my pleasure, Alcalde. It's often said that to be Don Jose Hernandez's guest is to know fullest happiness." "Very good, senor. Your pun's well taken." "Sometimes such absurdities slip out, Alcalde. Forgive me.