"Tell me about it."
"In the first place, the Friar Lusciano Osuna has decided for active service."
"Good news, señora."
"The power of his words is overwhelming. He will be most valuable in winning Baja California to our cause. He came to see that English rule would be a fostering one to his Indian wards. On no other ground would he take part with us."
"But why do we need his work in Baja California more than in Alta California?"
"Good señor, this part of the province has been carefully worked over, and is responsive. In comparison, the lower half has scarcely been touched. I have made some representations touching sentiment there which may need bolstering."
"How?"
"Last night, at the baile, the young men, the most of them, were rapturously in favor of the English protectorate."
Farquharson smiled.
"The elders ardently followed; that is, the majority. A few hard-headed ones were obdurate. Mendoza, as I expected, was as set as a sheet anchor."