Moreover, he
conceived that he had scored heavily by his last retort, at which
Kirk had only smiled. It therefore seemed best to him to withdraw
from the conversation (annoyingly conducted in English), and a few
moments later he stalked majestically away. This was just what
Kirk wanted, and he quickly suggested the balcony. But Gertrudis
was obstinate.
"I must remain with my father," she said.
"May I sit beside you, then? I've been thinking of a lot of things
to say. I always think of bully remarks when it's too late. Now
I've forgotten them. Do you know, I'm going to nestle up to your
father and make him like me?"
"Again you are speaking of that subject. I have known you but an
hour, and you talk of nothing but my father, of me, of coming to
call."
"Well, I can't think of anything else."
"You are too bold. Spanish fathers do not like such young men. But
to hear me talk!" She flushed slightly. "I have lost all modesty
to speak of those things. You force me to embarrass myself."
"I was an instantaneous success with Miss Torres' father. He was
ready to send a dray for my trunks."
"Let us discuss other things."
"I haven't the strength. You once spoke of a chap your people had
picked out. It isn't-Alfarez?"
She let her dark eyes rest upon his a moment, and his senses swam.
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