But, Padre--"

"It is useless for you to deny it, Don Mario, for I have facts. Now
listen to me. Let us understand each other clearly, nor attempt to
dissimulate. That iniquitous system of peonage has got to cease in my
parish!"

"_Caramba_, but Padre Diego had _peones_!" the Alcalde exploded.

"And he was a wicked man," added Jose. Then he continued:

"I know not what information you may have from the Bishop regarding
me, yet this I tell you: I shall report you to Bogota, and I will band
the citizens of Simiti together to drive you out of town, if you do
not at once release Lazaro, and put an end to this wicked practice.
The people will follow if I lead!"

It was a bold stroke, and the priest knew that he was standing upon
shaky ground. But the man before him was superstitious, untutored and
child-like. A show of courage, backed by an assertion of authority,
might produce the desired effect. Moreover, Jose knew that he was in
the right. And right must prevail!

Don Mario glared at him, while an ugly look spread over his coarse
features. The priest went on:

"Lazaro has long since worked out his debt, and you shall release him
at once. As to Rosendo, he must have the supplies he needs to return
to Guamoco. You understand?"

"_Caramba!_" Don Mario's face was purple with rage. "You think you can
tell me what to do--me, the Alcalde!" he volleyed. "You think you can
make us change our customs! _Caramba!_ You are no better than the
priest Diego, whom you try to make me believe so wicked! _Hombre_, you
were driven out of Cartagena yourself! A nice sort to be teaching a
little girl--!"

"Stop, man!" thundered Jose, striding toward him with upraised arm.

Don Mario fell back in his chair and quailed before the mountainous
wrath of the priest.

A shadow fell across the open doorway. Glancing up, Jose saw Carmen.
For a moment the girl stood looking in wonder at the angry men. Then
she went quickly to the priest and slipped a hand into his. A feeling
of shame swept over him, and he went back to his chair. Carmen leaned
against him, but she appeared to be confused. Silence fell upon them
all.

"Cucumbra doesn't fight any more, Padre," the girl at length began in
hesitation. "He and the puppy play together all the time now. He has
learned a lot, and now he loves the puppy."

So had the priest learned much. He recalled the lesson. "_Bien_," he
said in soft tones, "I think we became a bit too earnest, Don Mario.
We a