“Bother! You will call, Mercita, won't you?”
“With pleasure, if mamma will permit me,” Mercedes replied.
“You are a sweet pussy always, and the best of sisters. Can't she go, mother?”
“Certainly, if her father does not object.”
“I not only do not object, but I shall be pleased to have Mercedes and her mamma and sisters all call, for I think Clarence's mother must be a lady.”
“Hurrah for father, he is a man after my own heart,” said Victoriano, clapping his hands.
“Papa feels proud of your approval,” Carlota said.
“I would suggest that Tano make a reconnoitering visit before Mercedes goes, as a leader of a forlorn hope,” said Rosario.
“Goodness, how military your terms, but how little your courage,” said Victoriano, derisively.
“I admit that I always dread to face squatters,” said Rosario.