“I think the Holman girls will be coming about the same time. I was telling Clarence to look after them a little, if convenient, and if they are not sea-sick,” said Victoriano.
“They will require my services more if they are sick,” said Clarence, laughing.
“If you are a good nurse,” Victoriano observed; adding, “Imagine Corina Holman nursed by a strange young gentleman; that would kill her sure.”
“I would try and prevent that,” said Clarence.
“Thank you, for my friends. I do not think they will be very ill; but I am sure it will be pleasant for them to have so good an escort,” said Mercedes.
Clarence promised, therefore, to look after the Misses Holman, and let them know which steamer would be best to take coming to San Diego.
Mercedes said she would write notifying them of this arrangement.
There was a great something in Clarence's mind that he wished to say to Mercedes before leaving, but he had neither courage nor opportunity to say it, so he left, carrying with him the burden of his thoughts untold.
His voyage was accomplished in safety, the steamer arriving at San Francisco at the regular time. Hubert Haverly came to meet him, and together they went to a restaurant for breakfast.
“Give us the most secluded room and the nicest breakfast your establishment can produce, for this gentleman is very particular, and I am very hungry,” said Hubert.