"About tariff reform. It is the first speech that I shall have made. Hitherto I have only put inquiries."
"Don't be so modest, Perico; I happen to know that you have presented a report concerning the citizens of Valdeorras, without flinching or anything coming of it."
"Don't you laugh; the danger to-day is very serious."
"Terrible!... Especially for the taxes.... And when are you to be married?"
Mendoza looked down and flushed.
"On the fifteenth."
"I am delighted that you are entering into the good path," said Miguel, noticing Mendoza's mortification, and generously trying to spare him.
"Come, get up, man; it is already almost eleven o'clock."
"You will breakfast with me, won't you?"
"My dear fellow, you must know that to-day is an exceptional day for me!"