herself an Andalusian by suppressing d's and
replacing the sound of s by that of z. No one had been able to get
the idea out of her head; one would certainly have needed to get her
frizzes off the outside first. She talked of visits of Linares to the
captain-general, and made continual insinuations as to advantages a
relative of position would bring.

"As we say," she concluded, "he who sleeps in a good shade, leans on
a good staff."

"It's--it's the opposite, wife."

Maria Clara was yet pale, though she had almost recovered from her
illness. She kissed Dona Victorina, smiling rather sadly.

"You have been saved, thanks to your connections!" said the doctora,
with a significant look toward Linares.

"God has protected my father," said Maria, in a low voice.

"Yes, Clarita, but the time of miracles is past. We, the Spaniards say,
trust not in the Virgin, and save yourself by running."

"It's--it's--the contrary, wife!"

"We must talk business," said Dona Victorina, glancing at Maria. Maria
found a pretext for leaving, and went out, steadying herself by
the furniture.

What was said in this conference was so sordid and mean, that we prefer
not to report it. Suffice it to say that when they parted, they were
all satisfied. Captain Tiago said a little after to Aunt Isabel:

"Have the caterer notified that we give a reception to-morrow. Maria
must get ready for her marriage at once. When Senor Linares is our
son-in-law, all the palaces will be open to us; and every one will
die of envy."

And so, toward eight o'clock the next evening, the house of Captain
Tiago was once more full. This time, however, he had invited only
Spaniards, peninsular and Philippine, and Chinese. Yet many of our
acquaintances were there. Father Sibyla and Father Salvi, among
numerous Franciscans and Dominicans; the old lieutenant of the
Municipal Guard, more sombre than ever; the alferez, recounting his
victory for the thousandth time, looking over the heads of everybody,
now that he is lieutenant with grade of commandant; Dr. Espadana,
who looks upon him with respect and fear, and avoids his glance;
Dona Victorina, who cannot see him without anger. Linares had not yet
arrived; as a person of importance, he must arouse expectation. There
are beings so simple, that an hour's waiting for a man suffices to
make him great in their eyes.

Maria Clara was the object of interest to all the women, and the
subject of unveiled comments. She had