The old Indian started off at full speed, carrying Gracia in her arms, sobbing all the time, and blessing the Great Spirit that she had lived to restore the lost child to the dear señora.
Leon and Catrina could barely keep pace with her, but at last they entered the very room, where, five years before, the beautiful child lay sleeping in her little willow cradle.
“I have brought her back, señora,” cried old Macata, out of breath. “It is our little white bud, señora, dear! Oh! Alma mia! Mijita mia, Waconda has not forgotten us!” The old woman placed the child in the mother’s arms, and fell with her face upon the floor, weeping for joy.
No words can tell the joy that filled the house. Only the heart of the father and mother could feel how greatly God had blessed them.
Now the years went pleasantly by. The good Catrina become a lovely maiden. Her form gained strength and beauty. Her hair grew soft and glossy; her skin clear and smooth, and her brown eyes were tender with the light of happiness. But, most wonderful of all, her voice was a marvel of sweetness. It was a great pleasure to hear her sing at evening, accompanied by the soft music of her light guitar. She was loved by all, but especially so by the young hidalgo, who won her for his bride.
Leon and Gracia danced together at the wedding, and it was plain enough to see how devoted the brave young señor was to the graceful señorita whose life he had saved.
Gracia had grown more and more beautiful every year, till in all the country she was called La Bonita.
She had many admirers, but the señor said, “Young Leon restored her to us, and to him only will we give our child.” Thus, upon her sixteenth birthday, the great wedding feast was made, and all San Diego around re-echoed the great joy. There were tables spread under the lime-trees for the poor, and all the country was there.
In the quaint adobe church the marriage ceremony was performed, and with a happy heart Leon received his bride, while the father and mother thanked God for His most blessed gifts, their son and daughter. Thus all their sorrows ended, and all their lives were circled by the light of happiness and love.