Page:Caroline Lockhart--The full of the Moon.djvu/143

 was found grazing in Pedro Fuentes's alfalfa field, although the corral gate had been securely tied, Señor Fuentes appeared with suspicious alacrity to collect damages.

The last straw was the request of Señora Luiza Montejo for five cents in payment for a cup of chili-sauce which she had sent Nan as a gift some days before.

"I opine that our popularity is on the wane," said Nan dryly as she laid the coin in that lady's outstretched hand. "In fact, if straws show which way the wind blows, I predict that a storm is coming."

Mrs. Gallagher, on her sheepskin with her knees drawn to her chin, made no reply.

It was a small matter, it seemed to Nan, to have caused such feeling, but at that time and in that village it required but a small matter to arouse in the Mexicans the always smoldering hatred of the Americanos.

Therefore, in view of the prevailing unfriendliness, Nan was surprised to see Doña Marianna Apedaca whip her spindling leg over the bars which served as a gate before Nan's end of the dobe, and to note that although the thermometer registered a trifle