"What a papacito!" kissing him to cover her confusion. "How shall the señorita inside the embrasure prevent the music-inclined caballero on the outside from touching the strings of his guitar?"
Mendoza laughed while looking fondly at his daughter.
"You ask me how the doña may discourage the suitor? Ah, little one, how can I tell you? The claws show sharp and repelling, or presto! all is soft and smooth as velvet. What works the wonder, ask you? Ah, Carmelita mia! Lolita Hernandez is not the only minx in the world."
The girl playfully tugged at her father's thick hair.
"What a father is mine! He has seen all things and has accomplished all things," changing the subject. "Has ever there been an ungratified wish in your life, except the one to chase the emperor of the French across plowed fields? If so, now is your chance. I will be your fairy godmother. Come, make your wish, and, behold! It is done."
She had slipped from the chair and standing, held her arms extended over him. "Make your wish now," laughingly.
"My child, I have a wish, but its fulfillment would involve the folding together of events that time has unfolded; indeed, the turning backward of time."
She dropped her hands in concern. "O, papacito, tell me your desire," coming again to the arm of his chair.
He did not reply.
"O, little papa, you are so serious. Please tell me what it is."