"That enthusiast, Mendoza, thinks he can persuade you to seize our capital, Monterey. Suppose you do? The province will seethe in rebellion, and call to Admiral Fairbanks for aid. He will give it. That means war. Your United States is unprepared for war at sea. Mexico then goes under an English protectorate. Texas goes back to Mexico, and England will then control the Pacific Coast from the tropics to the Russian line in the far north."
Both were standing now.
"Señora Valentino, neither Mendoza, nor anyone, can lead me into an unconsidered move in this matter."
"To-night you had an appointment with Mendoza. Fate intervened. To-morrow sees not the danger removed. He will ask you to seize this province for the United States. Commodore Billings, ruin comes if you do."
"Señora, I have never seen Mendoza."
"You know of his wishes. Others do."
"But I shall judge for myself."
Again her inscrutable smile. "Commodore, I thank you. I mean—that is to say—I thank you for listening to me to-night. I pray good will come of it." Her hand was on his arm. He took it in fervent grasp.
"Señora, Europe knows you for a brilliant woman. I say you are that, and more. I am glad to have met you again." He looked at his watch. "It is late. I fear I have kept you too long. I ask your pardon."
"My Commodore, have a care, only, that you do not ask pardon of the world one day for what your decision to-morrow may bring about."