e affair of the tresses, clearly
comprehending the symbolism of the act. Exasperated beyond bounds, he
can no longer control himself, and cares not what may come.

At his instigation, Calderon spurs on by his side, the two tearing
furiously along. Their purpose is evident: to force the pedestrians
from the path, and so humble them in the eyes of their sweethearts.

On his side, Crozier remains cool, admonishing Cadwallader to do the
same. They feel the power of possession: assured by those smiles, that
the citadel is theirs. It is for the outsiders to make the assault.

"Give a clear gangway, Will!" counsels Crozier; "and let them pass. We
can talk to the gentlemen afterwards."

Both step back among the _manzanita_ bushes, and the _ginetes_ go
galloping past; De Lara on Crozier's side scowling down, as if he would
annihilate the English officer with a look. The scowl is returned with
interest, the officer still reserves speech.

On the other edge of the avenue the action is a little different. The
midshipman, full of youthful freak, determines on having his "lark." He
sees the chance, and cannot restrain himself. As Calderon sweeps past,
he draws his dirk, and pricks the Californian's horse in the hip. The
animal, maddened by the pain, springs upward, and then shoots off at
increased speed, still further heightened by the fierce exclamations of
his rider, and the mocking laughter of the mid.

Under the walls the two horsemen come to a halt, neither having made
much by their bit of rude bravadoism. And they know they will have a
reckoning to settle for it--at least De Lara does. For on the brow of
Crozier, coming up, he can read a determination to call him to account.
He is not flurried about this. On the contrary, he has courted it,
knowing himself a skilled swordsman, and dead shot. Remembering that he
has already killed his man, he can await with equanimity the challenge
he has provoked. It is not fear has brought the pallor to his cheeks,
and set the dark seal upon his brow. Both spring from a different
passion: observable in his eyes as he turns them towards the house-top.
For the ladies are still there, looking down.

Saluting, he says:

"Dona Carmen, can I have the honour of an interview?"

She thus interrogated does not make immediate answer. Spectator of all
that has passed, she observes the hostile attitude between the two sets
of visitors. To receive both at the same time will be mor