And there was another thought which often came to him and caused his cheeks to burn with horror. If, as his clothing had indicated, he had been the child of wealth, did not his obscure position indicate that he was at the same time the child of shame?
Since he had reached man's estate he had thought of these things often and had prayed that in some way, at some time, the mystery might be solved, for the suspense was worse than any assurance, however dreadful. He had often thought with longing upon his father, his mother. This morning in the bitterness of his heart he cursed them for the situation in which he found himself. He despaired at last of ever finding out anything. What mattered it now? He might be of the proudest and most honorable lineage in New Spain, a Soto-Mayor, a Bobadilla, even a de Guzman. It would advantage him nothing since he had lost Mercedes. In spite of himself he groaned aloud, and the girl riding a little distance behind him heard the sound of anguish in his voice.
Her heart, which had been yearning toward him with increasing force, was stirred within her bosom.
"Ride thou here," she said suddenly to Señora Agapida, "I go forward to speak with Captain Alvarado."
"But, señorita, thy father——"
"Is it not permitted that I speak with the captain of the soldiery who escort me?"
"Certainly, if I am by."
"I do not choose to have it so," replied Mercedes, with all the haughtiness of her father. "Remain here. I will return presently."
Brushing her aside with an imperious wave of her hand and a threatening glance before which the poor duenna quailed, for her charge had never shown such spirit before, Mercedes struck her Spanish jennet with the whip she carried, passed around the intervening soldier, who courteously gave way to her, and reined in her steed by Alvarado's horse. So close, indeed, was she to the captain that she almost touched him. It was good to see the light leap in his eyes, the flush come into his pale cheek as he became aware of her presence.
"Donna Mercedes!" he cried in surprise. "Is anything wrong? Where is the Señora Agapida?"