“That’s it!” interrupted the young men; “that’s what we want!”
What did they care about seeing the King of Bohemia cut off the heads of his daughters! They were neither kings nor barbarians, and if they did such things themselves, would be hung high on the field of Bagumbayan. He proposed that two native plays be given which dealt with the manners of the times. There were two he had in mind, works of their best writers. They demanded only native costumes, and could be played by amateurs of talent, of whom the province had no lack.
“A good idea!” some of the Conservatives began to murmur.
“I’ll pay for the theatre!” cried Captain Basilio, with enthusiasm.
“Accepted! Accepted!” cried numerous voices. The young man went on:
“A part of the money taken at the theatre might be distributed in prizes: to the best pupil in the school, the best shepherd, the best fisherman. We might have boat races, and games, and fireworks, of course.”
Almost all were agreed, though some talked about “innovations.”
When silence was established, only the decision of the gobernadorcillo was wanting.
The poor man passed his hand across his forehead, he fidgeted, he perspired; finally he stammered, lowering his eyes:
“I also; I approve; but, hem!”