I contented myself with occasional sentences.

The young woman sat directly across from me, our words overheard by all, and as I knew both men possessed some slight knowledge of English, I dare not venture beyond commonplace conversation in that tongue.

With quick wit she took her cue from me, so that nothing passed between us, either by word of mouth or glance of eye, to arouse suspicions.
Believing the feeling of confidence would be increased by such action, I was first to leave the table, and it being my watch below, immediately retired to my room, noisily closing the door after me, yet refraining from letting the latch catch, thus enjoying a slight opening through which to both see and hear.

Manuel did not linger long, making some excuse to go forward, but Estada remained for some time, endeavoring to entertain.

She laughed at his efforts and appeared interested in encouraging him, so that he kept his spirit of good humor even amid these difficulties.