"No, but your manner does not please me."
"Oh! oh! you are not always so wild, my charming bird."
"What do you mean?" she continued, with a blush.
"No matter, I understand it; but that is not the question just at present."
"What is it, then?" she asked with feigned surprise; "Have I not brought you the mezcal you ordered?"
"Yes, yes; but I have something to say to you."
"Well, say it quickly, and let me go."
"You are in a great hurry to escape from me; are you afraid lest your lover may surprise you in conversation with me?"
Ruperto's comrades began laughing, and the maiden stood quite abashed.
"I have no lover, Ruperto, and you know it very well," she answered with tears in her eyes; "it is cruel of you to insult a defenceless girl."