“But I want to be faithful and hon’able, too,” persisted Pilarica.
“A man must do his duty,” declared Don Carlos, slowly and earnestly. “That is what manliness means. He must satisfy his conscience. But it is enough for a little girl if she content her father’s heart, as my darling contents mine. And when the years shall bring you a husband, then he will be your conscience.”
“But I want a conscience of my own,” pouted Pilarica. “And I do not want a husband at all. If I must grow up, I will be a nun and make sweetmeats.”
“Time enough to change your mind,” scoffed Rodrigo. “What is my riddle, Grandfather?”
“Wait till my father has had his turn,” jealously interposed Rafael.
Grandfather was all ready:
“Here comes a lady driving into town;
Softly the horses go;
Her mantle’s purple, and black her gown;
Gems on her forehead glow.”
“But this is difficult,” groaned Don Carlos, thinking so hard that the hammock creaked.
“I know,” cooed Pilarica. “Grandfather told it to me once before.”
“Don’t give my father a hint,” warned Rafael.