She got up and Kit heard steps on the path.
"Some of the people from the hotel," she said. "Will you come and see Jacinta?"
"I think not," Kit replied and forced a smile. "My business is to buy onions and I must get to work."
Olivia gave him her hand. "Perhaps I was shabby. In all you do, I wish you good luck!"
She went to meet the others, and Kit went down the path. He was hurt, but he had braced himself beforehand, and the hurt was less than he had thought. Moreover, he knew Olivia's arguments were good. He loaded the schooner and soon after he returned to Las Palmas Jefferson came to look for him on board Mossamedes.
"If you're not altogether satisfied with the post Don Arturo gave you, another could be got," he said. "A Spanish company is going to run two or three small, fast boats to the islands and wants an agent. I've been asked to find out if you would undertake the duties?"
"I'm not a Spaniard," Kit replied. "Why do they offer me the job?"
"I rather think it is a reward. In Spain, government approval pays, and perhaps the new company got a hint. It's possible the Las Palmas officials feel they owe you something, but can't openly acknowledge your services. However, I'd better state the duties and pay."
When Kit knew the pay he lighted a cigarette and pondered. Then he said, "The offer's good, but I can't take the post. For one thing, I've engaged to go to Cuba for Don Arturo."
"The office would release you."