"From the viewpoint of a simple mission-administrator I can appreciate what such double work must mean. I trust the Englishman will be more wary in the future against kidnapers, that you may not be further burdened from that quarter at least."
Barcelo winked knowingly. "Brandy overnight usually leaves headache in the morning. The man must be a seasoned drunkard, for when I saw him there was no sign of his debauch. Of course he has now learned the strength of our native product, and I hope will govern himself accordingly."
The serving peons with respectful insistence were knocking at the door. The guests were coming in numbers.
The Señora Mendoza came into the room, curtsied to the company, then said to her father, "Papacito, many seek thee."
"Yes, yes, my child."
"The child is right," said Barcelo. "Señor Mendoza, your place is with your arriving company. Come, señoras, let us forth to the grounds. It is known that I am here. Many will be looking for me." Then in a confidential aside to Mendoza: "Will you write a letter to the secretary of state in Mexico City setting forth my qualifications for the governorship? State what you know for and against," with an air of great frankness.
"I'll do as you ask, Colonel." Turning to the friar: "Now, Señor Padre, we will resume. The guests will be well attended without my ministrations for the present."
Padre Osuna placed a small package in his hand. "This is the Jesuit bark you brought me in my recent illness. I could not accept it from you as Administrator Mendoza, highly as I esteem the qualities of character which led you to bring it to me. From Señor Mendoza I should have greatly valued the favor."
The other bowed understandingly. "Still I cannot separate Señor Mendoza from Administrator Mendoza."
"Let it then be so. Adios, Señor Mendoza," and the friar stepped into the corridor.