"O, padre," wept the Indian, "I thought thy life was struggling to free itself of body, and my heart became water within me, for I love thee."
"Very well. Very well. But, Juan Antonio, in the future think with thy head, not with love or fear."
Señor Mendoza appeared in the open door.
"Reverend Padre Osuna, will you pardon my coming unannounced? Each day since you returned have my servants made inquiry, but found you too ill to receive a visitor."
"Enter, Señor Mendoza. Please seat yourself."
"Thank you, sir Padre. I had a small quantity of Jesuit bark, invaluable in this fever-and-ague affliction. Unfortunately, I mislaid the bark, not finding it till to-day, and I came but now to bring it in person."
"Very kind of you, señor."
"I heard the death-wail of the Indians; heard, also, the toll of the bell marking the passing of an officer of the church. Your Indians first told me you were dead, then that you had risen from the dead. So, I congratulate you, most happy that no need exists for condolences to anyone. Padre Osuna, here is the bark."
Juan Antonio took the bark and laid it on a table by the bed of the friar.
"Many thanks, señor, for your goodness. As head of this Mission of San José I accept the gift from Señor Mendoza."