What cared Vasco if the lines of soldiers were not precisely straight? Even less did he mind Harlan's criticism and lack of admiration for the parade. Were not these soldiers enlisted in the service of his country, and were they not ready to lay down their lives in its defence?
Vasco's only wish was that he were old enough to join them and wear the uniform which to him seemed so glorious.
But, like all spectacles, grand as it seemed to Vasco, this one at last came to an end. The last flag had dipped before the reviewing stand, the last soldier had disappeared from the plaza, the last beat of drum was lost in the distance.
Meantime, the sun had risen high, and with its hot rays was driving to cover all the people of Panama. As was their usual custom, shopkeepers and market-men closed their doors at eleven o'clock and betook themselves to their homes to enjoy their noonday siesta.
Even the throngs of boys forsook their sports and disappeared from the streets, and Vasco and Harlan took their departure from the cathedral,—the latter to his cool room in the hotel, the former to his more humble home.
CHAPTER II.
ABOUT THE CITY
Perhaps you would like to know more about Vasco Barretas—who he is, his home, his surroundings, his occupations, his ambitions. Of the two latter there is little to be said. Like many of the boys of Panama, he had no occupation—not even going to school—and no particular ambition. If any thought of the future ever did come into his mind, it was quickly forgotten for some pleasure of the moment.