“When we want the ladies to be infantry soldiers, then we will ask them to cultivate big feet,” said Don Mariano, laughing.
“But not until then, please,” said Clarence, smiling.
“Aha! I see you cherish the general male weakness,” said Victoriano, kneeling before his sister to put on the little slipper. “I am the only strong-minded man, I know. Come, pussy, I'll carry you to your room.”
“No, no. You take me, papa, Tano might drop me.”
“Nonsense; as if I couldn't carry a kitten like you.”
“Papa, you take me, but not to bed. Put me on the lounge in mamma's room, and call Madam Halier to me.”
“All right; anything to please the children,” said Don Mariano, stooping to lift her.
She put her arms around his neck, and whispered: “Papa, who is this young man? I never saw him.”
“That is a fact,” said Don Mariano, taking her up, and turning toward Clarence, said: “Mr. Darrell, permit me to present you to my daughter, Mercedes, ‘our baby.’” So saying, he dandled her a little in his arms.
“Oh, papa, you make me ridiculous! How can I bow like a lady, when you are rocking me like an infant!” she said, laughing, but blushing again like a rose.