"Go on with your boat story," a smile played about the corners of his mouth. "What became of the craft?"
"The Governor ordered it sent to Monterey and commanded Argüello to appear before him. The Comandante was surprised to have his work thus suddenly interrupted but hastened to obey orders. On the way his horse stumbled and fell, injuring his rider's leg so seriously that when Argüello reached Monterey, he was hardly able to stand. Without stopping to have his injury dressed, he limped into the Governor's presence, supporting himself on his sword.
"'How dared you build a launch and repair your Presidio without my permission?' exclaimed the exasperated Governor.
"'Because I and my soldiers were living in hovels, and we were capable of bettering our condition,' was the reply.
"Governor Sola, not noted for his genial temper, raised his cane with the evident intention of using it, when he noticed that the young Comandante had drawn himself erect and was handling the hilt of his naked sword.
"'Why did you do that?' the Governor demanded.
"'Because I was tired of my former position, and also because I do not intend to be beaten without resistance,' Argüello answered.
"For a moment the Governor was taken back, then he held out his hand. 'This is the bearing of a soldier and worthy of a man of honor,' he said. 'Blows are only for cowards who deserve them.'
"Argüello took the outstretched hand and from this time he and the Governor were close friends. But the boat proved so useful at Monterey, that it was never returned."
The Jeweled Tower of the Exposition came into view. "So it is to be the three months' old World's Fair, after all, instead of the home of the first Mexican Governor of California?"