"Yes, mother," returned Itlza, going to execute the command, at the same time looking very happy.
The eyes of the prince followed her admiringly as she left the room, and he remarked:
"The years have, indeed, wrought changes in us all, but in Itlza the greater. She has grown into an admirable woman."
"Yes," replied the gratified mother. "She has changed much in the last few years."
The return to the room, at this moment, of the object of their remarks, cut off further allusion to her. She took her seat at the board, and, after customary formalities, the morning repast was begun.
The prince had made no reference to his friend, the tzin; but was, nevertheless, much concerned about him, and, without further delay, inquired:
"Teochma, I would hear something of Euetzin. Have you any knowledge of his whereabouts?"
"Not of a certainty. He expected to be in Tlacopan about this time, if nothing should occur to occasion delay."
"I wish that I might see him; but driven, as I am, to hasten on, I can not hope to be so fortunate." After a short pause he continued: "How long did he stop with you on his way out?"
"Only one evening—a brief stay, indeed; too brief to satisfy a mother's heart," answered Teochma.