"Señors Padres, it is a delight to meet you. I trust your various charges are prospering."
The friars, who had arisen, exchanged glances.
"This is as may be, señor," from the padre of Santa Clara.
Padre Osuna came quietly into their midst.
"Reverend padres, and Señor Mendoza, I am late. A visitor, coming unexpectedly and bringing a message of vast purport to me, was the cause of my detaining. Let us be seated."
He continued:
"Brethren of my order, I requested you here, that you might be listeners of the proposal Señor Mendoza is prepared to make. You know the missions and their requirements. You may be able to enlighten him as to the wisest course. Now," inclining his head to Mendoza, "we are ready to hear you, señor."
The courtly hidalgo bowed in return.
"Señor pastor, and señors padres, the law of the secularization is spread on our statute books. Its extension in this Mission of San José de Guadalupe has been gradual, as you know. I believe the time has come for further extension."
He looked slowly from Osuna to the others. None of the churchmen spoke. He went on: