"It is in vain."
"And why?"
"I did tell him. We rode together from Mission San José to this place."
"What did he say?"
"He said he contemplates soon leaving California forever."
"Most unaccountable, señora, most unaccountable! But—a man like Morando does not cast aside such prospects of high honors and power unless some strong counter attraction prompts him. Well—if he leaves, we must find someone to take his place."
Farquharson arose. "I hope your hand will not trouble you seriously. When do you return to Monterey?"
"I remain a day or two with the Calderons, then I go home."
"Allow me to congratulate you again on your success of last night. Directly I see Fairbanks I will send or bring you word. Good morning, señora. My best wishes to you."
The lady bade him farewell and watched him mount, the voluble Brown declaring, "These roses have spread out two inches while you've been gone, Cap'."