“Yes; Mercedes, poor child, was very unhappy, and it went to my heart like a knife to send her away, but I deemed it to be my duty—I hoped it would be for the best.”
“And so it was. You did right.”
“Yes, but it did not enter into my calculations that you were to jump on board the steamer,” said she, laughing.
Clarence's face and ears became crimson.
“I hope you have forgiven me for it,” he stammered.
“I suppose I must,” said she, still laughing.
“I assure you I had no idea of doing such a thing, but when I saw her going I didn't care what I did.”
“And as you received some dispatches, you thought it was best to dispatch other matters as well.”
“But, after all, she left everything for you to dispatch. My fate is in your hands.”
It was now Doña Josefa's turn to blush.