Mañuel Nevarro had eagerly enlisted in the Mexican ranks, and in a few weeks after General Cos's arrival, donned his uniform. Thus accoutered, he presented himself, for the first time since their disagreement, before Inez, who had but recently returned from San Jose, doubting not that her admiration of his new dress would extend to him who filled it. In truth, his was a fine form and handsome face; yet sordid selfishness, and, in common parlance, "a determination to have his own way," were indelibly stamped upon his countenance.
Inez was busily preparing the evening meal when he entered; and though perfectly aware of his presence, gave no indication of it. He stood aside and watched her movements, as she shaped and turned the tortillas. Presently she began to sing "He quits his mule, and mounts his horse, And through the streets directs his course-- Through the streets of Gacatin, To the Alhambra spurring in, Wo is me, Alhama.
"And when the hollow drums of war Beat the loud alarm afar, That the Moors of town and plain Might answer to the martial strain, Wo is me, Alhama.
As the mournful cadence died away, she turned, and started with well-feigned surprise on meeting the piercing glance fixed upon her.
"Ah, Mañuel!" She held out both hands, with a most amicable expression of countenance. He grasped them, and would have kissed her beautiful lips, but she slipped adroitly to one side--"No, no! Mañuel. I'll not permit that till I am Señora Nevarro."
"And when will that be, Señorita?"
"Not till the war is over."
"But it has not begun yet; and it will be many moons before we whip these cursed Americanos."
"How many, think you, Mañuel?"
"I can't tell, Inez; therefore we will not wait till the war is over. The Padre is ready any time, and why not marry at once?"
"Sacra Dios! I'll do no such thing."
"And why not, Inez?"
"Because they might kill you, Mañuel, and then what would become of me?"
"You would be as well off then as now; there would be no difference, only you would be married. You will mourn, any how, if I am killed."
"How do you know I would?" Her Spanish eyes twinkled as she spoke; but for fear of going too far, she laid her hand on his shoulder. Mañuel turned sharply round.