"Antonio," called the padre. The Indian came quickly. "Conduct my visitor outside, then return."
Major-domo and caller passed through the courtyard.
"Amar Dios!" the Indian said at parting.
"Many thanks for your attention," from the other.
Juan Antonio returned to the friar's room.
"Take these letters and lock them in my desk there. Bring me the key. Good. Now, attend carefully to what I say."
"Yes, Señor Padre."
"Tell no one the name of the man whom you have just escorted out."
"It shall be as you say, Reverend Padre."
"It is well. The giant, ambition, stirs in his sleep. Soon he awakes and moves to action." Then, in half aside: "Mexico has wrought the undoing of our missions. If a chance of retrieval comes why should I not—but Misericordia!"