Page:Under three flags; a story of mystery (IA underthreeflagss00tayliala).pdf/209

 States, having resided in New York two years; that she loves America and everything American; that, were it not that her father's interests necessitated a residence in Cuba, she would like to live always in America; and much more information, imparted in a quiet, dignified manner which Jack is positive was acquired by her short stay in the land of the free and the home of the enterprising.

All too soon comes the interruption of luncheon, and Ashley is presented to Don Manuel de Quesada. Jack takes a good, square look at the tall, spare, elderly man who grasps his hand warmly and tells him that he is always proud and happy to meet an American.

Don Quesada is a typical Cuban in appearance; his bearing is distinguished and his manner partakes of the dignity and repose of his daughter. But there is a certain weakness about the mouth that Ashley at once notes.

However, Don Quesada is cordiality itself, and after lunch the three men adjourn to the library for a smoke, Carlos and Juanita taking themselves off for a ramble through the park.

The conversation drifts naturally to a discussion of the patriotic uprising which has almost attained the proportions of a revolution that promises to be as successful as the struggle for independence of the American colonists. The talk is general, and Ashley surprises his companions by remarking abruptly:

"By the way, Don Quesada, before I left America it was hinted to me by an influential member of the Cuban revolutionary society that the President of the Provisional Republic of Cuba is a resident of Santiago."

"Ah?" says Quesada, inquiringly.

"That is, I suppose Santos may be considered a part of Santiago."

Quesada and Navarro look at each other meaningly.

"In other words, that this President is none other than yourself, Don Quesada," continues Ashley; and without waiting for a reply to this direct speech he goes on:

"I tell you only what, as I say, was intimated to me in the strictest confidence. I shall not ask for a confirmation