"Very good, it shall be done."
"With a stick. She is used to a stick, and will not take a slapping."
"Quite so."
The fun grew broader and louder. Alvaro's imperturbability had the happiest effect. He understood that beneath all this banter his friends cared for him and appreciated his bravery.
At this moment a servant came in who handed him a note on a silver waiter. He took it and opened it with some interest. As he read it he again smiled and handed it to the man next him. It was from the manager of a Cemetery Company, offering his services and enclosing a prospectus and price list. Some of the youngsters had amused themselves by getting him to do it. But Luna did not take offence, and he seemed greatly interested in his game.
At last Juanito Escalona came to fetch him. After settling accounts he rose. They all gathered round him.
"Good luck to you, Alvaro!"
"I cannot bear to think of your being run through."
"Do not be absurd; there is no running through in the case. It will soon be over, with nothing but a scratch."
Jesting was now at an end, it was all good fellowship. Alvaro lighted a cigar with perfect coolness, and said quite easily: "Au revoir, gentlemen."