"And that is all the use thou hast for us? For us who would die for thee?"
"In a barrel of aguardiente? I prefer thee to dance with. To tell the truth, thy step suits mine."
"Ay, señorita mia! thou canst put honey on thy tongue. God of my life, señorita—I fling my heart at thy feet!"
"I fear to break it, señor, for I have faith that it is made of thin glass. It would cut my feet. I like better this smooth floor. Who is that standing by the window? He has not danced to-night?"
"Don Pablo Ignestria of Monterey. He says the women of San Luis are not half so beautiful nor so elegant as the women of Monterey; he says they are too dark and too small. He does not wish to dance with any one; nor do any of the girls wish to dance with him. They are very angry."
"I wish to dance with him. Bring him to me."
"But, señorita, I tell thee thou wouldst not like him. Holy heaven! Why do those eyes flash so? Thou lookest as if thou wouldst fight with thy little fists."
"Bring him to me."
Don Carmelo walked obediently over to Don Pablo, although burning with jealousy.
"Señor, at your service," he said. "I wish to introduce you to the most charming señorita in the room."