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WILL not go and leave you among savages," Doña Carlota declared.

"Your protection is neither necessary nor desired, Doña Carlota," Helena informed her, with cold, unfriendly front.

"I know the formalities, no matter for your unruly independence, young lady. I will remain. My despised protection may be something to cling to like a bird in a gale before this day is done."

"Your protection, Doña Carlota! Your memory is short. It was you that betrayed me to savages, it was your treason that sent me to what would have been my death but for the strong arms of valiant gentlemen. You are more of a savage than the meanest here, Doña Carlota."

"Doña Carlota, Doña Carlota!" the fat little lady repeated, with contemptuous mimicry, her face flaming at the affront. "Have you forgotten my relationship, do you no longer remember your duty to your elders—well, if I am not so much older, either!"

"The door opens to your hand, Doña Carlota; it will be well to go."

"Go? I shall not go until Don Abrahan commands you to the house again, to your room. Then