Thus, Don Andres' solution of the problem of preserving peace became the subject for a conference that lasted more than an hour.

The don was absolutely candid; so candid that he spoke upon a delicate subject, and one that carried a sting of which he little dreamed.
"One factor I cannot help recognizing," he said slowly.

"I am not blind, nor is the senora blind, to the--the--friendship that is growing between Senor Jack and our daughter.

We had hoped--but we have long been resolved that in matters of the heart, our daughter shall choose for herself so long as she does not choose one altogether unworthy; which we do not fear, for to that extent we can protect her by admitting to our friendship only those in whose characters we have some confidence.

Now that we understand each other so well, amigo, I will say that I have had some correspondence with friends in San Francisco, who have been so good as to make some investigations in my behalf.