Señor Rodriguez nodded. “We hope so—we want ver’ much to do that.” He turned and translated Jo Ann’s words to the padre, who also nodded approvingly. “Padre Ignacio and I are ver’ happy dat you young ladies are so much interes’ in our people,” the Señor added then, “and we would like to do somet’ing to show you how much we appreciate what you haf done—so—we haf decide to give you each what you like best of de jewels.”
The girls exchanged swift glances of surprise.
He poured out the jewels on the table. “I believe Mees Peggy like dis necklace—is it not so?” He handed her the filigree necklace she had admired so much.
“Oh, señor!” gasped Peggy, staring wide-eyed at the bit of loveliness in her hands. “You mean this is really mine?”
“Sí, Mees Peggy. It is wid much pleasure dat I present it to you.”
“And, Mees Florencita, did you not say you like dis bracelet?” He placed the jewel-set bracelet in her hands.
“Oh, but señor, that is too valuable to give to me,” protested Florence.
“No—no,” he replied, patting her on the shoulder. “It is of no value compare to what you haf done for us.”
“And now, Mees Jo, will you please to come here one moment?”
With cheeks flushed from excitement Jo Ann rose from her chair and came over to the Señor’s side.