But at the same moment the letter was quietly but firmly taken from her hand, and Mr.Jack Cranch stood beside her.
Juanita was crimson, but unconquered.

She mechanically held out her hand for the letter; the American took her little fingers, kissed them, and said: "How are you again ?" "The letter," replied Juanita, with a strong disposition to stamp her foot.
"But," said Cranch, with business directness, "you've read enough to know it isn't for you." "Nor for you either," responded Juanita.
"True.

It is for the Reverend Father Superior of San Jose Mission.

I'll give it to him." Juanita was becoming alarmed, first at this prospect, second at the power the stranger seemed to be gaining over her.

She recalled Francisco's description of him with something like superstitious awe.
"But it concerns Francisco.