"There are two causes, niña, and it is hard to see how both can be right. But, since men quarrel about them, it is not impossible that both may be wrong."
Evelyn smiled. The duenna's remarks saved the situation from becoming strained; the woman was obviously shrewd in spite of her heavy face.
"They are always quarreling in this country," the señora continued. "Those who will not pay their taxes call themselves Liberators; those who expect favors from the President are Patriots. If he does not give them enough, they conspire with the others to turn him out. Since everybody cannot be satisfied, there is always trouble."
"But our friends are not fighting for rewards!" Blanca objected indignantly.
"A few are disinterested," the señora conceded. She paused, and turned to Evelyn with an authoritative air. "You must tell me why you ran away from Rio Frio. I can guess something, but want to know the rest."
After a moment's hesitation, Evelyn thought it prudent to comply, and the señora seemed to listen with sympathy.
"To run away was the simplest plan, but sometimes the simplest plan is not the best," she said. "Did you think of nothing else?"
"I sent a message to Mr. Grahame of the Enchantress, telling him I was in difficulties," Evelyn replied, watching Blanca.
The girl looked up with quick interest, but there was no hint of jealousy in her expression.
"You thought he would come to help you?"