“Good heavens!” exclaimed San Martin, when the Friars had left. “What are we to do? This will never answer!”
“O sir,” replied the aide-de-camp, “there are two more of the same stamp close at hand.”
“Indeed! Then saddle the horses again, and let us be off!” exclaimed San Martin.
So it happened that the conquering General was forced to retreat, and enter Lima before people were asleep.
The Mother and her Three Sons
When he entered the city, instead of going directly to the palace where he was to lodge, he stopped to call on the Governor.
In a moment, the news of his arrival sped through the city. People came thronging into the Governor’s house, and even filled the court and street.
San Martin was forced to stand in the audience-chamber and receive the crowds. Old people and young people pressed fast upon him. But though he was so modest and heartily disliked any show or pretension, he received their praises patiently and kindly.
A handsome middle-aged woman approached him, and as he leaned forward to greet her, she threw herself at his feet. There, clinging to his knees, she looked up into his face, and exclaimed that she had three sons at his service, who, she hoped, would become useful citizens.
San Martin listened to her with respect. As he gently raised her from the floor, she flung her arms around his neck and finished her speech. He replied to her with great earnestness; and the poor woman’s heart seemed bursting with gratitude for his attention and kindness.