"Why oppress our neophyte children with this becoming of age just at this time?" questioned Osuna.
"Because it is not a day too soon. Men of many nations begin to flock here. Westward the course of civilization must come. It is destiny. We cannot stay it. Then, why not meet it? We, Spaniard and Indian, must stand on our own feet, accept from the newcomer what will strengthen our moral and spiritual fiber, and give back as much of ourselves as will benefit others. Therefore must we be self-reliant."
The room was still.
Padre Osuna spoke after a moment.
"Circumstances have but now arisen which preclude me from giving Señor Mendoza reply. That, as well as the adjustment of other affairs here, will have to fall to some one else. Soon will I make explanation." Turning to Mendoza: "Shall I find the Señor Mendoza at his house late this afternoon?"
Mendoza bowed. "At your service, señor padre."
"Brethren, I will return to you in a moment."
The padre conducted the Administrator down a long corridor, into the courtyard, toward the lodge.
An elderly woman was walking under a vine-covered trellis.
"Mother," tenderly from the friar, "I am sorry to keep you waiting; but there are many things to do, and only a short time."