ill go to it, like a bird to its nest."

In half an hour they had turned the heads of their horses westward
again. They went so rapidly, and were under so much excitement, that
sustained conversation was impossible. And the Senora also fell into a
sound sleep as soon as the first homeward steps had been taken. Whatever
had been made known to her by Juan had received its fulfilment. She was
assured and happy. She slept till they reached the victorious camp,
and her husband awakened her with a kiss. She answered him with her
old childish impulsiveness. And among the first words she said, were
"Roberto, my beloved, I have seen Juan."

He believed her. To his reverent soul there was nothing incredible in
the statement. The tie between a mother and her child is not broken by
death. Was it unlikely, then, that Juan should have been conscious of,
and touched by, the mental agony which his untimely death had caused a
mother so beloved?

And oh! how different was the return to the ground west of the Buffalo
Bayou. The very atmosphere was changed. A day or two of spring had
brought out the flowers and unfolded every green thing. Doctor Worth
took his family to a fine Mexican marquee, and among other comforts
the Senora found there the chocolate she had so long craved, and some
cigaritos of most delicate flavor.

In a short time a luxurious meal was prepared by Antonia, and just as
they were sitting down to it, Luis and Lopez entered the tent together.
Isabel had expected the visit and prepared for it as far as her limited
wardrobe permitted. And her fine hair, and bright eyes, her perfect face
and form, and the charming innocence of her manners, adorned her as the
color and perfume of the rose make the beauty of the flower. She was so
lovely that she could dare to banter Luis on the splendor of his attire.

"It is evident, mi madre, that Luis has found at least the baggage of a
major-general. Such velvet and silver embroidery! Such a silk sash! They
are fit at the very least for a sultan of the Turks."

He came to her crowned with victory. Like a hero he came, and like a
lover. They had a thousand pretty things to say to each other; and a
thousand blissful plans in prospect. Life to them had never before been
so well worth living.

Indeed, a wonderful exaltation possessed both Luis and Lopez. The
sombre, handsome face of the latter was transfigured by it. He kissed
the hand of the Senora, and then turned to Antonia. Her pa