ctor built, is the best in the city. It has even
two full stories. It is very suitable for a religious house. It is not
far from the Plaza, yet secluded in its beautiful garden. Fray Ignatius
has long desired it. When he has removed you, possession will be taken,
and Santa Anna will confirm the possession."

"God succor our poor souls! What shall we do then, Senor? The Mexican
army has entered Texas, it will soon be here."

"Quien sabe? Between the Rio Grande and the San Antonio are many
difficulties. Urrea has five thousand men with him, horses and
artillery. The horses must graze, the men must rest and eat. We shall
have heavy rains. I am sure that it will be twenty days ere he reaches
the settlements; and even then his destination is not San Antonio, it is
Goliad. Santa Anna will be at least ten days after him. I suppose, then,
that for a whole month you are quite safe in your own home. That is what
I believe now. If I saw a reason to believe what is different, I would
inform you. The good doctor, to whom I owe my life many times, has my
promise. Lopez Navarro never broke his word to any man. The infamy would
be a thing impossible, where the safety of three ladies is concerned."

"And in a month, mi madre, what great things may happen! Thirty days of
possibilities! Come, now, let us be a little happy, and listen to what
the Senor has to tell us. I am sure this house has been as stupid as a
convent"; and Isabel lifted the cigarette case of the Senora, and with
kisses persuaded her to accept its tranquilizing consolation.

It was an elegant little golden trifle studded with gems. Her husband
had given it to her on the anniversary of their twenty-fifth wedding
day; and it recalled vividly to her the few sweet moments. She was
swayed as easily as a child by the nearest or strongest influence, and,
after all, it did seem the best to take Isabel's advice, and be a little
happy while she could.

Lopez was delighted to humor this mood. He told them all the news of
their own social set; and in such vivid times something happened
every day. There had been betrothals and marriages, quarrels and
entertainments; and Lopez, as a fashionable young man of wealth and
nobility, had taken his share in what had transpired.

Antonia felt unspeakably grateful to him. After the fretful terror
and anxiety of the day--after the cruel visit of Fray Ignatius--it was
indeed a comfort to hear the pleasant voice of Navarro in all kinds of
c