version and decision to remain with him as another direct
intervention of Providence; for that which usually required years had
been accomplished in as many weeks in her case. It was little short of a
miracle, and he rejoiced exceedingly and began gradually to unfold his
plans to her concerning her future.

The curriculum of the Convent of Saint Claire in Santa Fe did not seem
adequate, and nothing would do, but that he should accompany her to the
City of Mexico, where he placed her in charge of the Sisters of Saint
Ursula. There she would have not only the educational, but the social
advantages which the city offered.

Before their departure he christened her, Chiquita Pia Maria Roxan
Concepcion Salvatore; a name which, out of gratitude and obedience to
her benefactor, she accepted without question concerning either its
origin or his reason for giving it to her.

Six years passed, during which she traveled for three summers in Europe
with friends of the Padre. Interminably long years they seemed to him.
Each year he had planned to visit her, but each time something
intervened to prevent his going. He was a busy man. His duties required
annual visits to the outlying _pueblos_ and distant Indian Missions,
consuming his entire time. However, he at length received word from the
Sisters of Saint Ursula that Chiquita had completed her course of
studies and had started on her return journey to Santa Fe.

It was evident from the reports which he had received at regular
intervals from the Sisters that she did not care for the Church as he
had fondly hoped she might. But after all, what did it really matter?

One so young and gay could not be expected to take life so seriously.
When one grew old, one became serious enough for this world; and he
smiled as he thought of his wild little Indian girl.

In his fond imagination, he saw her large, mischievous, dark eyes snap,
and heard the merry peals of her laughter as she flitted about the
garden in former years. Surely it was better thus--that she should
remain blithe and happy like the birds, as God had created her.

The years had begun to tell on the aged Manuela. She was beginning to
show signs of failing, and he decided that Chiquita, his ward, should
live with him and rule his household in Manuela's stead. His wants were
so few and simple that she would have little to do and old Manuela would
be able to sun herself in the garden during the remaining years of her
life; a r