The mother of the Senhor Dias lived in a handsome house on the edge of the town. Since the death of her husband she had lived with her only unmarried son, the Uncle Prudente of whom the children were so fond. She received the travellers warmly. Her son Martim's wife was very dear to her, his children her idols, especially Affonzo. He was his grandfather's image; with his flashing black eyes, his proud mouth, his quick, impetuous manner, he was so like the noble old man she had so loved, that he seemed to embody the youth of her beloved dead.
"You must remain for a long visit with me," she said to the children. "I have asked the children of friends to come and play with you in the garden this afternoon. Some of your school-mates will be here, Affonzo, and some little folk for Lola. I hope you will have a pleasant time."
"You are most kind, grandmamma," cried both children, and when their friends came, they all repaired to the shady garden behind the house.
There were about a dozen boys and girls all chattering at once, but in a moment's quiet Lola said,
"Let us play 'Dona Sancha.' I should like it so much and we have thirteen, just the right number."
"Yes," said a little girl named Catharina.
"There are seven girls and six boys. One of us must be it."
"Who shall be it?" they all cried merrily, and one of the larger girls stood them in a row and repeated,
"I am a little widow
From the seacoast there;
I wish to find a husband
But I can't tell where.
Shall I marry this one? Yes.
Shall I marry that one? No.
Shall I marry this one? Yes,
For I love him so."