A little before noon they halted in a beautiful wood; a tent was spread for the ladies, the animals were loosened from their harness, and a luxurious meal laid upon the grass.

Then the siesta was taken, and at three o'clock travel was resumed until near sunset, when the camp was made for the night.

The same order was followed every day, and the journey was in every sense an easy and delightful one.

The rides, cheered by pleasant companionship, were not fatiguing; the impromptu meals were keenly relished.

And there were many sweet opportunities for little strolls in the dim green woods, and for delightful conversations, as they sat under the stars, while the camp-fire blazed among the picturesque groups of Mexicans playing monte around it.
On the third afternoon, the Senora and Isabel were taking a siesta, but Antonia could not sleep.