"I was, indeed. And now, señora, I remember you well. Strange I did not recall you at first."
"The fact that I was in ball-dress then and in riding-habit now is, undoubtedly, what prevented you from recognizing me before."
"Why, we have old friends here!" interjected Colonel Barcelo.
"How is Colonel Valentino, your husband?"
"Shortly after that ball of which we speak my husband was ordered to service in Morocco, and there he laid down his life for his country."
"I regret that my question called up sad memories. Nearly a year have I been away from Madrid, and news travels slowly to us here. I offer to you my sympathy in your great loss."
"You are very kind, Lieutenant—I should say, 'Captain' Morando. But—what is past is gone. It is well, then, to forget. A wonderful life these Californians live!"
"I trust Colonel Barcelo and his lady will find opportunity while in this vicinity to bring you, señora, to visit us at our home in Mission San José. What says my daughter?"
The Doña Carmelita cordially seconded her father's invitation. The Barcelos accepted; the Señora Valentino likewise.
"Mission San José—Mission San José—" mused the latter. "Is there not living there a Franciscan friar, one Lusciano Osuna?"