In Old California 20

Good Father Saez was right about the rain. It didn't beat against the wooden door. Without the rain their carriage they could gain, and Jose made his way down tiled brown floor to seek the colonnade and stay not more. Now leaving nave, group strolled the covered way. Then Jose noticed daughter's spirit soar and listened keen what lady spoke to say. "Margarita, be careful you don't get the edge of your dress in the water. There's many little puddles by the edge of the walk." "Yes, mother. I'll be careful. I'll take good care of my new dress." "I think blue's your best color, dear. Black mantilla and gloves go well with it. Your pearl tiara is exquisite. Black pearl is so hard to find. Where did you get it?" "Uncle Miquel gave it to me at my Quincenera," Margarita lied. "I think it must be worth much money. Take good care of it." "I would lay down my life for it." Several steps back, beyond range of hearing, Don Huerra spoke privately to foreman, Diego Silva. They spoke not of weather, religion, or business, but only of the beautiful senorita walking ahead. It was in mind of the middle-age vaquero to own this proud, willful woman. He wanted to break her spirit as he had done so often with wild mares. He wanted to teach her many things, to have her desperately want and love him. El Segundo listened attentively, little black eyes glowing like furnace coals.