"Rats!" cried her daughter, inelegantly, but without the slightest indication of vulgarity. "Do you think I am going to be shut off from the world because Carlita has come here? Come off! Come by all means, Leith, and bring Olney Winthrop. We'll see if we can't bring a little life back to his veins. And you might ask Redfield Ash, if you should happen to run across him. Four is not a good number for poker, and Redfield Ash is the most unlucky man alive. By the way, would you like to see our savage?"
"I am always interested in anything or any one that concerns you."
Her eyes lighted pleasantly as she touched a bell and said to Marie:
"Ask Miss de Barryos to come here, Marie."
"What a very swell name. Is she a Mexican?" inquired Pierrepont.
"Her father was. Her mother was an old school friend of mamma's, and I do believe mamma is afraid of this half-breed."
"Nonsense, Jessica."
"It is true, just the same. You never saw such a change in your life since the savage came among us. I really think she expects to see the scalping-knife in the girl's hand every time she comes—Oh, Carlita! I sent for you to introduce one of our dearest friends, Mr. Pierrepont. Miss de Barryos, Mr. Pierrepont."
Leith Pierrepont arose and looked into the girlish face. He knew from the fire in the dark eyes and the crimson glow in the olive cheeks that she had heard every word that had been spoken concerning her, and there was an expression of sympathy in his eyes as he put out his hand.