"It is so," assented Mendoza.
"I heard he was in California, and as you mentioned the Mission San José it came to me that was given as his present home."
"A man of some importance, probably, in Spain," volunteered Señor Hernandez.
"I do not know him personally," replied Señora Valentino. "In the cathedral of Barcelona I heard him give the Lenten sermons several years ago. It was quite shortly after his ordination, but his discourses possessed rare charm and power. The city was literally at his feet."
"Strange such a man comes here as a mission padre?" observed Hernandez.
"It was his request. Some unknown powerful influence seconded him, else Spain would not have lost her great preacher."
At that moment the strains of the grand march floated through the pavilion, from the excellent orchestra provided for the dancing.
Captain Morando was quickly at Doña Carmelita's side. "Señorita the Doña Mendoza, may I claim your favor for the grand march and the waltz following?"
It was granted.
Carmelita and Morando were at once circling in the waltz.