"Mother," she said, "you will give this letter to my father, and explain to him what I have not been able to write."
"Allow me to retire," exclaimed Don Torribio; "I must not listen to the instructions you are about to give to your attendant."
"I object," she replied; "I must have no secrets from you; henceforth you must know all my inmost thoughts."
Don Torribio glowed with delight. Just then they brought the horses. Doña Hermosa profited by the opportunity afforded by his speaking to the Apache to say rapidly to Manuela: "Your son must be here in an hour, if that be possible."
Manuela made a sign of acquiescence, and Don Torribio reentered the toldo.
"I myself will accompany Ña Manuela as far as the defences of the presidio; this will insure her from incurring any danger."
"Thanks, once more," replied Doña Hermosa.
The two women threw themselves into each other's arms, and embraced as if they were never to meet again.
"Do not forget!" whispered Doña Hermosa.
"Trust in me," replied Manuela.